Wales Rugby Star Opens Up About Gatland’s Surprise Decision
Wales rugby star, Max Llewellyn, has broken his silence about being left out of Warren Gatland’s initial Six Nations squad. Llewellyn, a centre, was notably absent from the squad due to his lack of involvement in the final autumn game against South Africa in 2024. However, the player’s exclusion was short-lived as Gatland stepped down just two matches into the tournament. Interim head coach Matt Sherratt quickly reinstated Llewellyn back into the squad alongside his Gloucester teammate, Gareth Anscombe, and former Cardiff player, Jarrod Evans.
Speaking about his disappointment, Llewellyn admitted that it was tough watching the beginning of the tournament on TV after receiving the news of his omission. He expressed his frustration, stating, “I was really disappointed. Gutted, I would probably say. It was pretty tough actually watching at the start from the TV.”
Gatland had justified Llewellyn’s exclusion by pointing out his lack of ball touches during the defeat to South Africa. The Wales team had limited possession during the game, leading to minimal involvement for Llewellyn. The player acknowledged this feedback, mentioning that the coaches highlighted the need for him to improve his speed off the floor to increase his impact on the game.
Since being recalled to the squad, Llewellyn has demonstrated his worth by delivering a strong performance against Ireland in Cardiff. When questioned about his feelings regarding Gatland’s initial decision, given Wales’ improved performance under Sherratt, Llewellyn hinted at a sense of vindication, stating, “Maybe.”
Llewellyn and Sherratt share a history, with the coach having previously worked with the player at Cardiff before his move to Gloucester. The centre revealed that Sherratt recognised his strengths and encouraged him to continue his impactful ball-carrying style during matches.
Looking ahead, Llewellyn is focused on finishing the tournament on a high note, aiming to make significant contributions to the team. With a renewed sense of purpose under Sherratt’s guidance, the Wales star is determined to prove his worth on the field and play a pivotal role in the squad’s success.
In conclusion, Max Llewellyn’s journey from initial disappointment to redemption in the Wales squad highlights the resilience and determination of a talented rugby player. His positive response to challenges and willingness to adapt to feedback exemplify the qualities needed to excel at the highest levels of the sport. As he continues to make his mark on the team, Llewellyn’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring rugby players seeking to overcome setbacks and achieve their goals on the international stage.