IT’S BEEN LAST MAN STANDING AT TIMES, BUT WHO’S SHONE?
Ryan Elias started the campaign receiving flak from far and wide after the Welsh lineout misfired badly against the All Blacks. Possibly, those manning the International Space Station that night were moved to argue “Wales should change their hooker”.
But Pivac stuck with him and he’s been rewarded, with Elias banging in a big effort against South Africa and following it up against Fiji with his best game for Wales.
If the odd glitch resurfaced in the Welsh lineout against Australia, he was throwing to a changed lock pairing, so maybe it was inevitable the odd ball would go astray.
But around the field Elias was again excellent.
His effort over the four games has been hugely encouraging for Pivac.
SECOND ROW
ADAM Beard It’s a tight call between Beard and Will Rowlands, with the Dragons man filling in well for Alun Wyn Jones before being ruled out by a concussion he picked up against Fiji.
But Beard’s leadership shades it. The 6ft 8in Ospreys player has emerged as an important figure for Pivac, pointing the way for others and helping to cushion the heavy second-row losses Wales have suffered over the past six months.
There was sympathetic lineout calling that allowed Elias to regain his confidence against South Africa and Fiji and other clear signs that Beard thrives on responsibility.
BACK ROW
TAINE Basham He’s had a stunning series, going a long way to justifying the hype that had built up around him before the autumn games started.
Basham has only just turned 22, as well.
The Dragon may not be the biggest but he’s at least three players rolled into one with his ability to carry, pilfer opposition possession, handle, offload and tackle.
He also plays with guts and spirit and the way he tore into the All Blacks showed he isn’t fazed by reputations. In the young No. 7, Wales have a gem.
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