Warren Gatland’s Six Key Starters for France Highlight Team Challenges
Warren Gatland’s squad for the Six Nations against France reveals key players and ongoing selection dilemmas as the tournament approaches
Wales, France, Six Nations, Warren Gatland, Rugby, Jac Morgan, Tomos Williams
Paris: Warren Gatland is gearing up for the Six Nations, and it looks like he’s got a solid core of players ready to go against France. The match is set for January 31, and the pressure is on.
Gatland has a good idea of who will make the matchday 23, especially since France is a tough opponent. Remember how they took down New Zealand last November? It’s going to be a challenge.
In team sports, competition is fierce, but even the best teams have a few players they can’t afford to lose. Think about the All Blacks in 2011 and 2015. They had depth, but losing Dan Carter or Richie McCaw would have been a huge blow.
Gatland’s first stint with Wales was all about consistency in selection. This time, though, things have been a bit shaky. Luckily, some key players are back from injury, and there are about six who seem like sure bets to start, as long as they’re fit.
Taulupe Faletau is a bit of a question mark due to his injury history, but Jac Morgan is a must-have. He’s a fantastic player and a real leader on the field.
Tommy Reffell is great too, but Morgan brings that extra spark. He’s the kind of player who shines in big moments, and you can bet he’ll be on the British & Irish Lions tour this summer.
Gareth Thomas is another nailed-on starter. He’s the unsung hero of the team, doing all the hard work in the scrum. Many think he could also be in line for the Lions tour.
Will Rowlands and Dafydd Jenkins are looking good for starting spots, but Adam Beard’s return could shake things up a bit.
Tomos Williams is definitely one of the first names on the team sheet. He’s been in great form, even if he made a questionable decision in a recent match against Fiji.
With some inexperience in the back three, it’s likely we’ll see Liam Williams and Josh Adams starting. Their experience will be crucial for the team.
However, there are concerns about the tighthead prop position. With Archie Griffin out, it’s a bit of a toss-up between a few players for that spot.
Wales has a lot of talented centres, but they lack experience, and Gatland is still figuring out the best combinations.
So, while there are at least six players Wales can’t do without, Gatland will need to sort out his first-choice lineup if he wants to end the team’s 12-match winless streak.