Strange gives Welsh boys licence to thrill
Round-up
FRANCE were runners-up last season but must do without 19-year-old fly-half sensation Matthieu Jalibert, who was called up to the senior squad.
In his absence, a lot of attention will fall on the shoulders of playmaker Romain Ntamack – son of Emile – who won 46 caps for France between 19942000.
Strength in depth is the key for Wales bettering last season’s third place finish according to head coach Jason Strange.
Grand Slam winners in this Championship back in 2016, Strange is feeling confident with youngsters like Dan Babos and Harri Morgan – both 17-year-old scrum-halves – blended with winger Tomi Lewis who has already spent time with Wales Sevens in the World Series.
“What’s good about this squad is that there are quite a lot of competitive areas,” Strange said.
“We’ve got fierce competition in the half-backs, while the back row is also a position of strength.”
Strange will be assisted by Chris Horsman and Geraint Lewis and they will be continuing their attacking approach that has served them so well in recent years.
“That attacking philosophy is really important,” he added. “It’s the way we want to develop our players in Wales – for them to play with flair, allowing them to express themselves as much as possible.”
Scotland coach Stevie has 24 new faces in his 28-man squad. Scott said: “We’ve selected a youthful and talented squad which we believe has the ability to perform in this year’s Six Nations championship.
“I have every confidence that this group of players will be focused for the vital games ahead.”
Ireland head coach Noel McNamara has packed his squad full of experience with Tommy O’Brien leading the lineup that includes 11 players in last year’s Championship as they look to improve on last season’s lowly fifth place.
McNamara, who will be assisted by Paul O’Connell in this year’s Championship, said: “It’s an exciting time for the players and the coaching team.
“There have been some tight calls across the board and it’s great to see that competition for places. Also, with 11 players who were involved last season, there is some good experience across the squad.
“The players have all been working hard over the past number of months and we’re confident in the ability of the squad.”
Italy, who lost all five games last season, have named four of last year’s squad and head coach Fabio Roselli has one aim: “Improving the results compared to 2017 is our goal – it is not easy but the attitude of the team has been superb.”