Anscombe faces his big test against Farrell
GARETH Anscombe had a breakthrough campaign with Wales in November.
Now things are about to get a lot harder for him! He’ll go head-to-head with Owen Farrell in two straight weekends of European Champions Cup action and that will be a massive learning experience for him because, while I’m a huge fan of Gareth’s, he’s not yet the finished article.
Going up against Farrell will be a stiff test for him. For me, Owen is one of the best backs in world rugby. He has everything; speed, skill, size, and he’s an excellent communicator and born leader.
He can also tackle – when he uses his arms!
I think Gareth can learn from Owen in terms of communication and leadership and I’m going to be fascinated to see how the battle between the pair goes on the big stage.
The thing with Gareth right now is his confidence will be sky high. How can it not be after his best stint with Wales to date last month? It’s the perfect time for him to duel with Owen.
That’s why I was delighted to see both players named at fly-half for the opening game between Farrell’s Saracens and Anscombe’s Cardiff Blues.
I know Gareth wants to play 10 all the time and, for me, the Blues must make that happen. I think head coach John Mulvihill has realised that too by the fact he’s shifted Jarrod Evans to 12.
I’m not sure if Jarrod is an inside centre to be honest, but what I do know is Gareth is an out-and-out 10. In Welsh rugby we can’t afford to mess around with a player of his calibre.
I’ve seen in the past how that can be to a player’s detriment.
James Hook is one of my best mates, but he is so good he could play anywhere on the pitch. It’s the same with Gavin Henson. Both those guys used to tell me on the quiet they only saw themselves as playmakers. It was unfortunate for them they didn’t get the chance to do that!
Anscombe must play 10 long term now – certainly for the Blues – because to underuse his talent would be a crime with him entering the best stage of his career.
Gareth can be anything he wants to be moving forwards and if he learns from Farrell in the next fortnight, then that certainly won’t hurt!