Get ready for an exciting rugby showdown as Wales gears up for their Six Nations campaign! The battle against England promises to be a thrilling affair, with some big decisions ahead for the Welsh team.
Former Welsh legends Shane Williams and Tom Shanklin have shared their dream starting XVs for the upcoming clash. It's a daunting task for Steve Tandy, the new Wales head coach, especially considering England's potential to dominate the tournament. The last encounter between these two teams was a painful memory for Wales, with England delivering a crushing defeat.
But here's where it gets controversial... Wales is entering this match as the underdog, but there's a glimmer of hope. The autumn campaign showed some promising signs, and Tandy's team aims to turn things around against their old rivals.
When it comes to the forwards, both Williams and Shanklin agree on the importance of Tomas Francis, who makes an immediate return to the starting side. Francis, with his 77 caps, hasn't played for Wales since the 2023 Rugby World Cup, but his experience and skill are invaluable. He joins Dewi Lake and Nicky Smith in the front row, with Adam Beard and Dafydd Jenkins forming a solid engine room.
The back row is where the legends differ slightly. Shanklin opts for Josh Macleod, the Scarlets skipper, at openside, while Williams goes for the Ospreys star, Harri Deaves. Shanklin's team sees Aaron Wainwright at number six and Olly Cracknell at eight, while Williams has them reversed.
"I chose Josh Macleod because he's the ultimate seven," Shanklin explains. "You need a specialist there, and he's been playing exceptionally well. I went for power with Cracknell and Wainwright."
Williams adds, "Harri Deaves is an old-school seven. He's the kind of player who gets stuck in and adds an X-factor. I like his style."
In the backs, both men agree on the half-back partnership of Tomos Williams and Dan Edwards. Ben Thomas, Blair Murray, and Louis Rees-Zammit secure spots at inside centre, left wing, and full-back, respectively. Mason Grady is a key player for both legends, with Shanklin placing him on the right wing and Williams at outside centre.
Shanklin's centre partnership includes Ben Thomas and Eddie James, bringing power and creativity. Williams, on the other hand, goes for Grady at 13, highlighting his involvement and impact. Tom Rogers, with his hat-trick against the All Blacks, completes Williams' team on the right flank.
"Blair Murray can be targeted aerially due to his height," Williams points out. "But when he has space, he's an incredible one-on-one player. Rees-Zammit at full-back provides height and comfort under the ball, and he has a solid kicking game. Rogers is full of confidence, and he's performing well for the Scarlets."
And this is the part most people miss... Williams' interesting choice of Mason Grady at 13. "Grady is a big ball carrier, similar to Eddie James. I wanted him involved."
So, who will Steve Tandy choose for this crucial match? Will he stick to the legends' picks, or go with his own strategy? The stage is set, and the excitement is building. Get ready for an unforgettable rugby experience!
Tom Shanklin's Wales XV:
15. Louis Rees-Zammit
14. Mason Grady
13. Eddie James
12. Ben Thomas
11. Blair Murray
10. Dan Edwards
9. Tomos Williams
1. Nicky Smith
2. Dewi Lake
3. Tomas Francis
4. Adam Beard
5. Dafydd Jenkins
6. Aaron Wainwright
7. Josh Macleod
8. Olly Cracknell
Shane Williams' Wales XV:
15. Louis Rees-Zammit
14. Tom Rogers
13. Mason Grady
12. Ben Thomas
11. Blair Murray
10. Dan Edwards
9. Tomos Williams
1. Nicky Smith
2. Dewi Lake
3. Tomas Francis
4. Adam Beard
5. Dafydd Jenkins
6. Olly Cracknell
7. Harri Deaves
8. Aaron Wainwright
What do you think? Who would you start for Wales against England? Let's discuss in the comments!
