Former England U20s star, Josh Hathaway, has declared that he was always destined to choose Wales over England, as he prepares for his first Six Nations tournament representing the Welsh side. The 21-year-old winger, who recently took the field for Gloucester, shared that despite his previous appearances for England U20s, his heart was set on playing for Wales. Hathaway expressed his gratitude towards both England and Wales for their roles in his rugby journey, emphasising the influence of his upbringing in Aberystwyth on his decision.
Cardiff winger, Tom Bowen, has been applauded for his exceptional performance against the Sharks, despite Cardiff’s defeat. The 19-year-old talent, who recently debuted for Cardiff and was subsequently selected for Wales’ U20s Six Nations squad, showcased his skills by scoring two tries and creating opportunities for his team. Coaches have praised Bowen for his seamless transition from school and club rugby to the senior level, highlighting his promising future in the sport.
Leicester Tigers coach, Michael Cheika, expressed dissatisfaction with the appointment of Six Nations referee Ben O’Keeffe during their match against Gloucester. Cheika questioned the decision to bring in international referees for domestic games, citing differences in officiating styles that impacted the match outcome. Despite the defeat, Cheika acknowledged the need for his team to improve and adapt to varying refereeing interpretations.
In other rugby news, Leinster’s victory over the Stormers in the United Rugby Championship provided a significant fitness boost for Ireland ahead of the Six Nations. Dan Sheehan’s try-scoring return and James Lowe’s comeback after an injury layoff bolstered Ireland’s squad depth. The match showcased Leinster’s dominance, securing their tenth consecutive league win and demonstrating their strength as URC leaders.
As the Six Nations approaches, anticipation grows among rugby fans for the intense competition and thrilling matches ahead. With teams making final preparations and fine-tuning strategies, the stage is set for an exciting tournament filled with fierce rivalries and memorable moments on the field. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as the Six Nations kicks off.