Former Wales and Lions player Jamie Roberts has recently made some bold predictions regarding the Wales team selection for the upcoming match against Ireland. Roberts believes that Max Llewellyn should be included in the starting XV, emphasizing the need for changes in the squad. With interim head coach Matt Sherratt set to announce the team lineup, Roberts and former Wales lock Andrew Coombs both advocate for Llewellyn to start, potentially replacing Ben Thomas at inside centre.
In a recent interview with S4C, Roberts shared his insights, stating, “I think Max will start as a centre. I’m not quite sure whether it will be at 12 or 13 or if Ben starts at 12. I think Max will come straight into the team.” Coombs echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of making changes to the team to alleviate pressure on certain players. He suggested that a change in positions could benefit Thomas and the overall performance of the team against Ireland.
The Welsh team has faced challenges recently, especially following Warren Gatland’s departure as head coach after a string of 14 defeats. Sherratt has been appointed as the interim head coach, but the search for a permanent head coach is ongoing. Candidates such as Simon Easterby, Franco Smith, and Michael Cheika are in the running for the position. Despite Wales’ struggles, Roberts believes that coaching the national team remains an attractive opportunity, emphasizing the need for a coach who can inspire and nurture the young squad.
Roberts, who serves on the Welsh Rugby Union board, highlighted the importance of finding a coach who can maximize the potential of the team. He stated, “A coach who is going to inspire and get the best out of these players. It is a young team that is growing but, yeah, we want to tick as many of the boxes as we can.” Roberts sees the current challenges as an opportunity for growth and development within the team, urging for a coach who can build a strong foundation for the future.
However, Coombs suggested a different approach, advocating for the appointment of a director of rugby before finalizing the head coach selection. He believes that having a director of rugby in place first would ensure a cohesive decision-making process in selecting the head coach. By prioritizing this strategic move, Coombs aims to create a structured leadership framework that aligns the coaching staff with the long-term goals of the team.
As Wales prepares to face Ireland in the upcoming Six Nations match, the anticipation and speculation surrounding the team selection and coaching staff continue to grow. With Roberts and Coombs offering their insights and recommendations, the rugby community eagerly awaits the announcements and decisions that will shape the future of Welsh rugby. Stay tuned for more updates on the team selection and coaching developments as Wales navigates through this transitional period in its rugby journey.