The Rugby World Cup is now six months away and following what can only be described as an abject Six Nations, it’s fair to say that right now Wales aren’t looking like a side who will be taking home the Webb Ellis Cup. However, six months is a long time in rugby union and fortunes may indeed change. So here we take a closer look at the situation and consider what successes – if any at all – may be on the cards for the boys in red.
A Six Nations to forget
As aforementioned, the Six Nations didn’t pan out the way Warren Gatland will have intended after his return in December 2022. A quick check back over the rugby news following the tournament will invariably show negative commentary about the performances that was critical of Wales’ lack of physicality and poor defensive play. The Grand Slam of 2019 certainly seems a distant memory as Wales narrowly avoided the wooden spoon with a close win over fellow-strugglers Italy.
Simply put, Wales weren’t good enough.
What needs to change?
That said, if we look at the bigger picture, it’s arguably a positive that Wales hadn’t regressed. After all, the form before the Six Nations was even worse and some have pointed out that the attacking play has improved under Gatland’s stewardship. But what else could make a difference?
- Gareth Anscombe’s return – the popular number 10 was missed during the last World Cup but he’s now on his way back from injury and his stylish playmaking abilities will be hugely important.
- Utilising more attacking personnel – specifically Will Rowlands, Cory Hill, and Jake Ball. These three used effectively will be hugely beneficial and if Rowlands in particular if he stays injury-free.
- Working on the lineout – Wales woes in the first few games of the Six Nations included consistently poor lineouts that wasted good attacking opportunities.
A bit of belief…
It’s important to remember that rugby union is also one of – if not the – most important sports in the country and Wales’ history in the game’s marquee global tournament is consistent and strong. This combination of factors (although not an exact science) may also provide that little extra bit of belief amongst Welsh side that carries them forward.
What’s more, should the changes suggested above be enforced and Wales get a few wins in the matches before the group stages begin, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see their odds looking a bit more favourable come September.