James expects some niggle in ‘toughest of leagues’
James will lead the Ospreys’ charge against Glasgow this afternoon in an encounter he expects to be every bit as fierce as a Premiership clash.
Steve Tandy’s men look to bounce back from their last-gasp defeat to Munster at the Liberty Stadium and former Bath prop James believes that game with the Irish giants showed the Pro12 is now a match for England’s top-flight.
“The standard is there or thereabouts in both competitions,” said the exWales international.
“Since I’ve come back in, the Pro12 has been very tough. The standard is getting better week-in, week-out. Even though we lost to Munster last weekend, it was a good advert for the league.
“It was a good game of rugby with lots of tries scored and two teams running hard.”
James, who won 66 Wales caps, is reaching the latter stages of his career, but provides invaluable guidance to the next generation of young props coming through at the Liberty Stadium.
His experience while the Ospreys are shorn of their Six Nations stars is a big boost to Tandy.
A top-four spot is still well within the reach of a side who remain on course for a league and European Challenge Cup double.
“One thing you get with Glasgow is they always come with a niggly pack and they have guys who can do damage in behind,
too,” James added.
“We need to sharpen up on our defence and look after the ball and if we get those two areas right, then we can play rugby against anyone.”
James starts against the Warriors with Brian Mujati propping up the other side of the Welsh scrum.
It’s a first appearance for the Ospreys for the former Northampton man.
“I think the fans can look forward to seeing him play,” said forwards coach Chris Gibbes. “He will bring some power and explosiveness.
“Physically, I’ve never seen a tight-head like him. He’s in incredible nick.
“We’re hoping he will bring experience to the front row and lock down the right side of our scrum against a pretty good Glasgow set-piece.”
Wales squad members Olly Cracknell and Rory Thornton also begin the game, but James King is among the replacements. Glasgow flanker Matt Smith will make his debut for the Scottish side.
Glasgow head coach Gregor Townsend said: “There is a good blend of youth and experience throughout the 23 and there has been an edge to our training this week.
“All our players have been pushing hard to be selected.
“We’ll have to take the game to the Ospreys for 80 minutes as they have been very impressive this season.”