Adams reveals best Wales XV and solves his problem at No.10
THE current coronavirus crisis means that it could well be a while before we see international rugby make a return.
However, Cardiff Blues winger Josh Adams has done his best to avoid any potential awkward words with coaching trio Neil Jenkins, Stephen Jones and Sam Warburton, when they all return to the training ground, including all three in his all-time Wales XV.
However, current skipper Alun Wyn Jones is the only one of Adams’ team-mates to make the cut, in a line-up bursting with legends of the Welsh game.
In a video put out on the Welsh Rugby Union’s Twitter account, Adams opted for a back three of Gareth Thomas, Ieuan Evans and Shane Williams.
Explaining his selections he said: “Shane Williams, record try scorer. Lethal finisher. He made that No.11 jersey his own over the years.
“Gareth Thomas, a really solid player. Comfortable on the wing or centre. He was a British
Lion and he’s been a fantastic servant to Welsh rugby over the years.
“Ieuan Evans was a fantastic finisher. Some world-class speed. Captained Wales a few times, so that’s a massive achievement.
At centre, 22-capped Adams has gone for a partnership of Scott Gibbs and Ray Gravell.
“Scott Gibbs is obviously most famous for that try against England to win the game.
“Just a real tough man and a great ball carrier. A good defender and someone you could really rely on in the midfield.
“Ray Gravell was a legend of the game for Wales and Llanelli. Another real tough man. Really good player in the midfield. Scott and Ray would be a really good centre partnership.”
However, picking a No.10 was clearly a tricky business for the 25-year old, who was unable to separate former Pontypridd legend Neil Jenkins and 104-capped Stephen Jones.
“This was a difficult one with Jenks and Steve being coaches here,” he added.
“I had to keep them happy, so I’ve gone Neil for the first 40 and Steve can come on at half-time. I’m making sure I stay in both their good books!”
Gareth Edwards, described by Adams as being “one of the best in the world” is in at scrum-half, while the back row features Colin Charvis, Sam Warburton and Scott Quinell.
“Scott Quinnell was a fantastic player, he added. “An awesome leader. Great at team talks and making sure he got his team on the front foot with his ball carrying.”
Second row features Test skipper Alun Wyn Jones and Luke Charteris.
On Jones, he said: “I don’t think anyone else could have that spot in the dream XV.
“Luke Charteris, a great player. Really skilful.”
Finally, Adams has plumped for a front-row trio of Gethin Jenkins, Mefin Davies and Adam Jones.
“I’m not too clued up about scrummaging or front row, but Gethin’s caps total speaks for itself and what he’s achieved in the Welsh jersey as well.
“Mefin Davies is one of the most enthusiastic guys I know.
“Obviously famous for his hair, but he’s [Adam Jones] a great player as well and he achieved great things with Wales.”
Josh Adams’ dream XV: Gareth Thomas, Ieuan Evans, Ray Gravell, Scott Gibbs, Shane Williams, Neil Jenkins/Stephen Jones; Gareth Edwards, Gethin Jenkins, Mefin Davies, Adam Jones, Alun Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Colin Charvis, Sam Warburton; Scott Quinnell.