Forgotten Welsh rugby player Ross Moriarty has opened up about his international career and the challenges he faced during his time with the Wales national team. In a recent interview on the Sportin Wales podcast, Moriarty, a hard-carrying number eight, discussed his experiences, shedding light on his struggles during the Wayne Pivac era.
Moriarty, who has earned 54 caps for Wales, revealed that he was approached about joining the national team camp before the last World Cup. However, at the time, he had just started playing for Brive in France and felt it was important to show his commitment to his new club. Despite his eligibility to play for Wales while abroad, Moriarty has not been selected by Warren Gatland since his last international match against Italy in 2022.
During the podcast, Moriarty reflected on his time under Pivac’s coaching, acknowledging that injuries had hindered his consistency and impacted his selection for the national squad. He highlighted the match against Italy as his last appearance for Wales, expressing his disappointment with the result. Following the end of that season, Moriarty made the decision to move to France to further his rugby career.
In a setback late last year, Moriarty suffered a serious injury while playing for Brive, which required him to undergo surgery and undergo a three-month rehabilitation. Despite the challenges he has faced, Moriarty remains hopeful about his future in rugby and is focused on making a strong comeback.
Moriarty’s candid revelations provide insight into the complexities and uncertainties that professional rugby players navigate throughout their careers. His dedication to both club and country underscores the commitment and passion that drive athletes to overcome obstacles and strive for excellence. As Moriarty continues his journey in the sport, fans eagerly await his return to the field and the impact he will undoubtedly make in Welsh rugby.
The interview with Moriarty serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination required to succeed in elite sports. While setbacks may test an athlete’s resolve, it is through perseverance and hard work that players like Moriarty find the strength to bounce back stronger than ever. With his sights set on future opportunities, Moriarty’s story is a testament to the unwavering spirit of Welsh rugby and the enduring legacy of its players.