LEIGH’S BACK IN THE WALES FOLD AGAIN
LEIGH Halfpenny is back in international rugby – but in a very different role.
The Wales and Lions star has been sidelined for the past seven months, having suffered horrendous knee ligament damage against Canada last July.
But he is still doing his bit for the national cause.
The 33-year-old Scarlets full-back has joined the Wales U20s coaching set-up, passing on his expertise by working with the youngsters on their kicking.
Head coach Byron Hayward says Halfpenny is bringing his trademark professionalism to the role, along with the vast experience acquired across 100 Test appearances.
“Leigh has been with us for the last four weeks, helping us out,” revealed Hayward.
“He was offering his expertise and it would be crazy to turn it down, really.
“I had a chat with him and he was keen on coming in as part of rehabbing his knee to get back playing.
“He offered his services, so we gladly took him up on it.
“He has been doing some kicking with the boys. He’s doing some technical kicking with the 10s and a bit of tactical work with our nines and a little bit with our units backs sessions.
“The boys have really enjoyed working with Leigh and they are learning so much from him, so it’s been a real bonus for us.”
So, does Hayward see ace marksman Halfpenny as someone who could move into coaching quite smoothly when he finishes playing?
“From what I have seen of him so far, I do, that’s for sure,” he replied.
“He has got a real good placid way about him. He is such a humble guy and the boys have hung on every word he’s said.
“From the technical and tactical side of it, he knows it inside out.
“His delivery has been really clear with the boys and his commitment is fantastic.”
“He has definitely got all the attributes to make the transition to be a coach.
“He’s is the ultimate professional and that’s another reason why we wanted him in here.
“I remember at the Scarlets, he was the first one in there and the last one out of the building by about three hours.
“I think the cleaners are wanting to go home before he goes home!
“He was like it every day and he’s still the same now, even at the latter part of his career.
“That professionalism can only make our boys realise how much work it takes to get where he is and do what he’s done.”
Wales bounced back from an opening-day rout at the hands of Ireland to beat Scotland 26-13 on Friday evening.