Owen joins Worcester, so no more caps yet
WALES international Owen Williams has signed for Worcester Warriors, ending any chance of representing his country again.
The playmaker from Ystradgynlais, capped three times for Wales, has been plying his trade in Japan for Red Hurricanes after leaving Gloucester last year.
He had been linked with moves back to Wales, which would have opened up the possibility of adding to his collection of Welsh caps under Wayne Pivac.
But the announcement that he’s signed for Gallagher Premiership outfit Worcester, who are coached by former Wales star Jonathan Thomas, ahead of the 2021-22 season will keep him out of contention for international selection.
Speaking about the move, the flyhalf, who can also play centre, said: “I’m really excited about the opportunity to join up with Worcester Warriors for next season.
“After speaking with JT, it is clear that he has a clear understanding and vision for the rugby side of the club and has made some exciting signings to supplement what is already a competitive squad.
“I am really looking forward to playing in the Premiership again and joining up with my new team-mates in the summer.”
Williams had admitted earlier this year that he was keen to pull the red jersey on again one day, but it depended on him getting an offer to come back home from one of the four regions.
“Never say never,” said Williams back in March. “I definitely still would like to play for Wales. It’s about if I get offered a contract back home.
“It’s down to that as I can’t play anywhere else to play for Wales.
“I had a good chat with Wayne (Pivac) before I signed out here. We had a few conversations on the phone.”
It’s unclear whether there was any concrete interest or contact from any of the four regions for the services of Williams, though.
Williams is the latest impressive signing by Worcester Warriors, who have also added Scotland wing Duhan van der Merwe, England scrum-half Willi Heinz, Wales hooker Scott Baldwin and Tonga No. 8 Sione Vailanu to their ranks for next season.
Warriors head coach and former Wales back-rower Thomas said: “In our recruitment we are looking for quality players but also quality people and good leaders.
“I have not worked with Owen before but a lot of people who have
speak very highly of him.
“He’s an experienced player now and he is very good at driving messages, team culture and standards.
“He’s a huge signing for the club. He’s in Japan at the moment but he has a lot of Premiership experience
from his time with Leicester and Gloucester.
“His versatility, with his ability to play at 10 or 12, gives us good balance.
“There is also a natural connection and combination with Owen and Willi. They know each other well.”