WRU relaxed over hot prospect Tshiunza despite English interest
THE Welsh Rugby Union say they are aware of England’s interest in Christ Tshiunza, the Wales agegrade prospect who’s rated one of the most promising young players in the British Isles.
The 6ft 7in second row appeared for Wales U18s at the age of just 17 with his rare mix of athleticism and physicality exciting coaches.
He left Whitcurch High School last year to attend college at Exeter University and he also committed to a four-year deal with Exeter Chiefs.
Chiunza has previously stressed his aim is to push on and play for Wales at the 2023 World Cup, but England U20s included him in their squad for a friendly against London Irish U23s at Hazelwood on Saturday, with Chiunza believed to have taken the field off the bench.
The WRU insist they are not unduly worried, however.
They are in regular dialogue with the youngster who also qualifies for England and France.
“We are very aware of Christ’s involvement in the last few weeks in England U20s’ match scenarios,” said Wales U20s head coach Gareth Williams.
“It would be natural for England to be interested in such a talented young player, and the match exposure will have been good for Christ following the lack of rugby due to the pandemic.
“Christ and I are in regular communication, discussing such options.
“Christ’s professionalism on the matter has been exceptional.
“We look forward to working with him later in the month within our under-20s’ preparation phase.
“Exeter have also been superb in our regular conversations. Academy manager Rob Gibson has been a hugely constructive point of contact, not only regarding Christ, but also Ollie Burrows, Dan John and Iwan Jenkins’ development.
“We are hugely excited about Christ’s potential and the enhancements he is making in a quality rugby environment like Exeter.”
Williams continued: “We have always been aware of England’s interest.
“But knowing the excellent work put into Christ at Whitchurch under (head of physical education) Mr Steve Williams, and his obvious potenial across regional age grade and national age-grade programmes, we cannot wait to have him back in a Welsh shirt as soon as possible.”
Wales are across it, then, while planning for Tshiunza to be part of their plans for the delayed 2021 U20s Six Nations, with the tournament set to take place in the summer.
That the towering young forward has a lot to offer isn’t in doubt.
A glittering junior career saw him play for Cardiff Schools, the Blues’ U16s and U18s as well as Rhiwbina RFC and various Wales age-grade teams.
Chief were said to be considering him as a potential back rower, with the former county-standard schoolboy sprinter and high jumper blessed with both pace and agility.
Born in the Congo, he arrived in England with his family at the age of six, moving to Wales in 2010.