Wales fans had a joyous Tuesday mulling over a strong Wales Six Nations squad announcement, with very few left disappointed. The serious matter of who would help Wales to take the crown off of England was the main focus of course.
But as much today, it was fan’s social media’s reaction that often describes the community acceptance of the team. Robert Rees examines the team, and the public comment.
Warren Gatland makes ‘the right choices’
There are two new faces amongst the Wales Six Nations squad. Scarlets flanker James ‘Cubby Boi’ Davies, and Worcester’s on fire winger Josh Adams.
Alun Wyn Jones will captain once again, and this 39 man squad shows plenty of promise. It will allow Rhys Webb and Alex Cuthbert to have one last ‘hoorah’ at the international game, before setting off into the Aviva Premiership wilderness.
Forwards; Rob Evans, Wyn Jones, Nicky Smith, Scott Baldwin, Elliot Dee, Ken Owens, Tomas Francis, Samson Lee, Dillon Lewis, Adam Beard, Bradley Davies, Seb Davies, Cory Hill, Alun Wyn Jones, James Davies, Talaupe Faletau, Ellis Jenkins, Ross Moriaty, Josh Navidi, Aaron Shingler and Justin Tipuric.
Backs; Aled Davies, Rhys Webb, Gareth Davies, Gareth Anscombe, Dan Biggar, Rhys Patchell, Rhys Priestland, Hadleigh Parkes, Owen Watkin, Owen Williams, Scott Williams, Josh Adams, Hallum Amos, Alex Cuthbert, Steff Evans, Leigh Halfpenny, George North and Liam Williams.
Fans Massive Sigh of Relief as James Davies Included
James Davies’ hot form for the Scarlets over the past two and a bit seasons have been immense, and his exclusion from the past Wales squad has been a mystery amongst supporters. Thankfully Warren Gatland has refused to ignore his fight for Wales any longer.
That left fans with relief more than joy in many cases.
Good to see cubby boi finally in. But just wonder if he will get his chance..
— Paul Evans (@PaulEva12635663) 16 January 2018
One flankers inclusion has been at the expense of others; with Wasps Thomas Young left out. It hasn’t caused discomfort amongst those airing their views upon the Wales Six Nations squad, but it has been one of those players who fans feel a little bit sorry for, considering his consistently strong form.
Out of sight out mind and we are blessed with 7’s
— Dai Rich (@Robbed_bald) 16 January 2018
Disappointing not to see Tomas young and Dacey there
— Hywel Lloyd (@hywel_lloyd) 16 January 2018
There have been some who questioned whether Gatland’s exclusion of Young was tactical. With Wales’ new 60 caps or play in Wales selection policy coming into play [at the end of this season] there’s been questions asked on whether Wales are trying to lure him back forcefully?
Treatment of Young – on the summer tour and exclusion for AIs + 6N – has been woeful. Are they hoping it might drive him home if they ignore him?
— Steve Grant (@SteveG1809) 16 January 2018
Cardiff Blues Cuthbert Selection raises some eyebrows
Away from the forwards and there has been a lot of the usual talk around Alex Cuthbert and the usual suspects claiming he isn’t good enough for Wales. Yes, he’s struggled in recent times, but in reality he’s shown some good form throughout the season for the Cardiff Blues and he’s a better option than those left out in the eyes of a lot of supporters.
Despite this, the usual crowd have continued to raise eyebrows upon his selection. Although with this being his last – with him exiting the Wales rugby scene to play for one of the English clubs – it may not be a bad thing, in terms of his confidence.
He’s been excellent for blues?what in the league where they were trash before Christmas? Or in the Mickey Mouse challenge cup. Cuthbert has let Wales down every time since 2013. Take the blinkers off
— Daniel John (@Daniel_John08) 16 January 2018
The only other questioning of player selection was over whether Dan Evans has been good enough. He’s been Ospreys best back all season, especially in their Champions Cup campaign. Evans has looked like an attacking force which Wales enjoy to release at fullback, with Liam Williams another option in recent times. It’s fair to say that whilst some others are unlucky to not get in the squad, the question is ‘has he done enough to knock any of those other players out of it?
Many think probably not, and that’s their opinion. Social media allows that, but it has never influenced the choices that Gatland makes. And that is why he would have chosen him, beside any others.
Still can’t believe dan evens hasn’t been picked like x
— titch x (@rugbyxxchick) 16 January 2018
Fans Happy ‘Overall’ with Wales Six Nations Squad
Overall it’s been a happy squad selection – compared to other recent one’s – with very few fans left with any sort of a complaint to make about it. It’s great to see some fresh faces in Davies and Adams, but also it’s a strong squad, once the more experienced players all return to fitness.
Wales will be without Priestland for around 2-3 weeks, but Gatland stated that he would try and give him some game time at Bath first. And Owen Williams makes another appearance, with his ability to cover several positions.
It’s a strong squad which I hope plays expansive & attacking rugby as the players picked can definitely play that style. Players miss out for numerous reasons which fans may or may not agree with. I’m a club/region 1st fan but always like to see the National team do well.
— Neil Westlake (@westlake678) 16 January 2018
Last Word on Rugby will need to judge the results primarily. But an active fanbase will always share their voice–and that is a positive for the game in general.
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