Webb’s return has Wales firing again
RHYS WEBB laid down a World Cup marker as his star turn in Rome helped Wales get back to winning ways in the Six Nations. The scrum-half was the main man for Warren Gatland’s side on his first Championship start in six years as the visitors recorded a much-needed victory over Italy.
At 34, Webb is in the twilight of his career after falling out of the international picture under Gatland’s predecessor as head coach Wayne Pivac. Now, he is back and his man-of-the-match performance at Stadio Olimpico showed he still has much to offer at international level. Webb is yet to play at a World Cup after injury and ineligibility robbed him of appearing at the 2015 and 2019 tournaments. Asked if he showed in Rome he should at this year’s version in France, Webb said: ‘I would have hoped so. I know what I can do and I believe in myself.
‘I’ve been waiting for this opportunity to show people what I can do. It was very emotional. It’s obviously been a long time coming. I am buzzing. ‘I didn’t let it get to me that I had not started in the Six Nations in six years. I have played international rugby. We can take a lot of confidence from this.’ After defeats by Ireland, Scotland and England and ongoing off-field distractions, Wales simply had to win in Rome to restore some belief. Gatland’s players got the job done. It wasn’t perfect, but Webb’s presence back in the side coincided with a much improved team display as he created tries for Rio Dyer and Taulupe Faletau.
‘I haven’t started thinking about the World Cup. This is my first campaign for a while so I am just enjoying this moment,’ added Webb. ‘I will keep working hard and whatever happens.’