Former Wales prop, Adam Jones, has expressed his surprise at Nicky Smith’s omission from the Welsh squad, revealing his appreciation for Smith’s impact against Ireland. Jones, who played alongside Smith at the Ospreys, mentioned that Smith was rarely picked by previous coaches like Warren Gatland and Wayne Pivac. However, under interim coach Matt Sherratt, Smith was given a chance to start, and he impressed by helping Wales secure early penalties against Ireland.
Jones, who now serves as a scrum consultant, praised Smith’s strength and scrummaging skills, highlighting his good performance in the recent match. He commended Smith’s abilities and leadership on and off the pitch, noting his contribution to the team’s scrum alongside fellow prop, WillGriff John. Jones lauded John’s performance, describing him as one of the strongest players in the squad and acknowledging his impact in the scrum and on the field during the match against Ireland.
Reflecting on Wales’ scrum performance in the defeat against Ireland, Jones noted the improvements made compared to previous matches. He emphasised the importance of building relationships within the team and expressed confidence in the squad’s scrummaging abilities moving forward. Jones also mentioned the selection choices made by interim coach Sherratt, highlighting the contributions of Smith and John and their pivotal roles in the team’s performance.
Looking ahead, Jones voiced his support for both Smith and John, predicting their continued success in upcoming matches. He praised their work ethic and dedication, underscoring their valuable contributions to the team. Jones also acknowledged the competitive nature of international rugby and the challenges that players face in securing their positions in the squad.
In conclusion, Jones expressed his satisfaction with the current state of Wales’ scrum and the progress being made under the coaching staff. He highlighted the hard work put in by the players and the positive impact it has had on the team’s performance. With upcoming matches on the horizon, Jones remains optimistic about Wales’ prospects and the continued development of the squad under the guidance of the coaching team.
Overall, Adam Jones’ insights shed light on the importance of player selection and performance within the Welsh squad, showcasing the dedication and talent present in the team’s forward pack. As Wales continues its journey in international rugby, the contributions of players like Nicky Smith and WillGriff John are set to play a significant role in the team’s success on the field.