In the latest Jiffy column, Jonathan Davies shared his thoughts on the recent developments surrounding Warren Gatland’s departure from the Wales coaching role. Reflecting on the suddenness of Matt Sherratt’s appointment as the new Wales coach, Davies expressed surprise at the timing and lack of preparedness for Gatland’s exit. Despite Sherratt’s relative inexperience as a head coach, Davies acknowledged his good reputation and urged supporters to get behind him for the upcoming games.
Davies highlighted the need for improvements in Wales’ gameplay, particularly in terms of gaining ground on the field. He emphasised the importance of creating more opportunities for the backs to shine through strategic selections in the fly-half position. With players like Jarrod Evans, Gareth Anscombe, and Max Llewellyn in contention, Davies speculated on potential lineup choices that could enhance Wales’ attacking prowess.
Discussing the recent lacklustre performances of the Welsh team, Davies noted a structured and sluggish approach to their gameplay, which hindered their effectiveness in gaining momentum. He suggested that Sherratt’s priority should be to instil a sense of freedom and boldness in the players to express themselves on the field. By encouraging a more dynamic and expressive style of play, Wales could potentially unlock their attacking potential against strong opposition like Ireland.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Ireland, Davies tempered expectations of a miraculous turnaround but stressed the importance of injecting creativity and aggression into Wales’ gameplay. He urged Sherratt to draw on his experience with Cardiff’s playing style to bring an element of flair and variety to the national team. While acknowledging the challenges posed by Ireland as a formidable opponent, Davies expressed hope for a competitive performance that showcases Wales’ attacking capabilities.
As Sherratt prepares to make his mark on the Wales team in his interim coaching role, Davies’s insights offer a glimpse into the strategic considerations and potential lineup changes that could shape the team’s approach in the upcoming matches. With a focus on revitalising Wales’ attacking strategies and instilling a sense of confidence and freedom in the players, Sherratt’s tenure presents an opportunity for the team to rediscover their attacking prowess and competitive edge on the international stage.