Adams and Francis give beleaguered Wales a fitness boost
Wales have received a double boost ahead of their Autumn Nations Series finale against Australia after Josh Adams and Tomas Francis were declared fit to start.
The reigning Six Nations champions have more than 15 players unavailable – including a number of British and Irish Lions – for the Wallabies’ Principality Stadium visit today.
Wing Adams missed the victory over Fiji last Sunday due to a calf muscle issue that forced his withdrawal just before kick-off, while Francis was concussed during training a week ago and saw an independent consultant on Thursday.
But they will both feature as Wales target a third successive victory over Australia in their final game before the Six Nations opener against Ireland on 5 February.
“We want as many players fit as possible, especially two who have been big for us over the last couple of years, so it's always nice to see people come
through,” Wales captain Ellis Jenkins said.
“Josh is just class. He is a world-class finisher and he has proven that on numerous occasions. What people probably don’t see is how competitive he is.
“He is very physical, he wants to defend.
“Quite often, backs get the reputation that they like to attack and they don’t like to defend but it really excites him and you can see he really thrives on the physical aspect of that.”
“He is one of the leaders throughout the team who is vocal and has a big say in things.” Wales began the autumn series with a 54-16 defeat against New Zealand, before suffering a five-point loss to world champions South Africa and then defeating Fiji following a late try burst.
Fiji and Australia are both in Wales’ 2023 World Cup pool, and although that tournament remains some way off, a win this weekend would be timely.
Jenkins added: "With Fiji and Australia being in our World Cup pool as well, there might be a psychological advantage to be gained.
“I am not so sure, personally. There are two years between now and then, but it is always nice to get one over on whoever you are playing.