A wave of opportunity has swept through Welsh rugby with the departure of Warren Gatland, offering a fresh start to several players whose international careers seemed to have reached an impasse. Gatland’s departure has opened the door for a new era of player selections, bringing hope to those who were once left out in the cold. Let’s take a closer look at some of the Welsh players whose prospects have been reignited by this coaching transition.
Johnny Williams, the powerful Scarlets centre, has been a standout performer in the Welsh game, showcasing his ability as a strong carrier with an impressive post-contact gain. Despite not receiving much attention during Gatland’s tenure, Williams possesses the raw talent needed to excel on the international stage and could be a player to watch in the coming seasons.
Another player who may benefit from Gatland’s exit is Morgan Morris, the dynamic No 8 from Ospreys. Morris has consistently delivered stellar performances in the URC, earning praise for his explosive carrying and work rate at the breakdown. While Gatland had reservations about Morris’ size and consistency, a new coach may see his potential and offer him the chance to shine for Wales.
Jarrod Evans, the talented 28-year-old fly-half, has been given a fresh start with his recall to the Wales squad. Despite facing criticism for his kicking and game management, Evans’ skill with the ball in hand and vision on the field make him a valuable asset. With interim head coach Matt Sherratt showing faith in Evans, there is hope for a resurgence in his international career.
Taine Basham, the Dragons backrower, is another player poised for a comeback on the international scene. Known for his explosive carrying and effectiveness in the wide channels, Basham has the potential to make a significant impact for Wales under a new coach. His move to Cardiff and a fresh start could be the catalyst for his resurgence in the national team.
Ioan Lloyd, the versatile 23-year-old from Scarlets, offers a unique skill set with his dangerous broken field running and playmaking abilities. While Gatland preferred a different style of play, Lloyd’s talent and creativity could find a new platform under a different coaching regime. His reintroduction to the Wales squad could mark a turning point in his international career.
Thomas Young, the seasoned back rower from Cardiff, has been a standout performer in the URC but was overlooked by Gatland. Young’s all-round game and impact on the field make him a valuable addition to the national team, offering a different dimension to the openside role. With only four caps to his name, Young has the potential to make a significant impact for Wales moving forward.
Olly Cracknell, the physical backrower from Leicester Tigers, has caught the eye of former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika with his powerful ball-carrying abilities. With Wales lacking strong ball carriers in recent times, Cracknell’s inclusion in the national squad could provide a much-needed boost to the team’s dynamics. His experience and temperament make him a promising prospect for the future.
Ross Moriarty, the experienced backrower, could also see a resurgence in his international career following Gatland’s departure. A key player in Wales’ Grand Slam campaign in 2019, Moriarty offers a no-nonsense physical presence that could benefit the national team. With his potential return to the UK on the horizon, Moriarty may find himself back in contention for a spot in the Welsh squad.
As Wales ushers in a new era of rugby under a different head coach, the opportunities for players to revitalise their international careers are abundant. With a fresh perspective and new strategies in place, these players could be on the cusp of a renaissance in Welsh rugby, bringing new energy and talent to the national team.