Amos keeps big picture in mind after Wales snub
HALLAM Amos wasn’t selected by Wales for their autumn campaign, but the aspiring doctor knows there are more important things in life right now.
The Cardiff Blues wing will look to continue his impressive start to the regional season at M unster in the PRO14’s first Monday night game.
But a recent experience has shown Amos the value of perspective.
He told The Rugby Paper: “Last Tuesday we trained in the morning. Sometimes it goes well, sometimes it doesn’t, but that afternoon I was in the GP surgery I had a guy have a heart attack on me.
“We had to call an ambulance, resuscitate him in surgery, and then get him to hospital. It does put into perspective the trials and tribulations of rugby and that there is a real world out there.
“It gives me perspective when some other boys can’t see the wood from the trees and get down if it’s not going well in rugby.”
Amos scored twice against Connacht and the Blues have won both their league games to date against Zebre and the Irish province.
But Munster at Thomond Park will be a tougher beast altogether.
Amos has responded well to missing out on Wales selection. He had been a regular in previous squads and went to last year’s World Cup.
“For me it’s just about getting game time. I had a knee operation before lockdown and it’s been about getting on the pitch and getting consistency,” Amos said.
“Over my ten years in rugby I’ve had a few injuries and it takes a few games to get back. I don’t look at the external things. I like to use my own motivation.”
John Mulvihill will be without Wales squad members Josh Adams, Cory Hill, Seb Davies and Dillon Lewis who all faced France last night.
Impressive young flanker Shane LewisHughes will also be absent after he was called up by Wales.
Amos believes the Blues can cope with Jarrod Evans, Rey Lee-Lo, Olly Robinson and Jim Botham all in fine form.
“We haven’t lost as many to the national side as usual or as we would have liked, but it means we have guys ready to go out in Munster. It’s exciting,” the 22 Test cap back added.
“Munster are obviously a strong side and traditionally as well as now are one of the best in the league. It will be tough, but that’s why we play the game. They might not have the usual home field advantage because of Covid restrictions so it’s a big opportunity for us.”
Munster are favourites but will be without their big name stars on Ireland duty including Conor Murray, CJ Stander, Tadhg Beirne and Peter O’Mahony. Teams will be announced today.