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Despite the fact that Welsh rugby has endured some very darkish days, many gamers are at the moment displaying promising indicators for the longer term.
An instance of one among these athletes is James Botham, grandson of the well-known cricketer Sir Ian Botham.
Nonetheless, the younger Welshman is paving his personal path within the sporting world and is an up-and-coming participant for his nation on the worldwide stage.
His current efficiency in opposition to Australia, the place he was a shining gentle in a poor Welsh show, has sparked discussions about whether or not the Cardiff back-rower is the answer for Wales on the blindside flanker place.
An Concern at Blindside
Wales has been identified for producing an abundance of high quality openside flankers, together with Jac Morgan, Sam Warburton, and Justin Tipuric, all world-class skills.
Nonetheless, in terms of the blindside, it’s usually an space the place Wales has lacked depth. The blindside flanker, also called the ‘six’, is a vital place in at this time’s trendy recreation.
They supply physicality in defence and are key ball carriers on the attacking aspect.
Dan Lydiate, a formidable power on the pitch, held down the place throughout his lengthy worldwide profession.
Since Lydiate departed from the worldwide scene, Wales has struggled to discover a alternative. Coaches have tried many approaches, whether or not taking part in two opensides or having a second-row convert to the place.
Over the previous yr or so, Warren Gatland has opted to play Leicester Tigers’ Tommy Reffell and Morgan when each had been obtainable.
The New Zealander made it clear, heading into the autumn, that he desires to play with a extra conventional six as a substitute of two opensides.
Each Morgan and Reffell deliver some qualities of a blindside flanker to the desk. But, it’s apparent Gatland disagrees. He has many promising blindsides, however Botham laid down a strong marker final weekend.
James Botham
Though he comes from an incredible sporting background, Botham has made fairly a reputation for himself in rugby.
Arising via the Cardiff Academy, the younger Welshman’s promise was evident from an early age.
The skilled back-rower has additionally proven curiosity in rugby sevens, representing his nation within the format, which demonstrates his versatile ability set.
This versatility causes issues for opponents and makes him a worthwhile asset.
Cardiff gave Botham his skilled debut in 2019 in opposition to Connacht. Since then, the flanker has established himself as a first-team common for his membership.
CARDIFF, WALES – APRIL 01: James Botham of Cardiff Rugby is tackled by Manu Tuilagi of Sale Sharks throughout the EPCR Problem Cup Spherical Of Sixteen match between Cardiff Rugby and Sale Sharks at Cardiff Arms Park on April 01, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photograph by Ryan Hiscott/Getty Photographs for Sale Sharks)
That is a powerful feat given the extreme competitors in Cardiff’s again row, with the likes of Mackenzie Martin, Thomas Younger, and Alex Mann all vying for a beginning spot.
When it comes to performances on the worldwide stage since his debut in 2020, Botham has delivered some strong showings however has but to be given a constant likelihood to shine.
He embodies every little thing one seems for in a blindside flanker: distinctive work price, dynamic ball-carrying potential, and rock-solid defence.
Botham is a incredible expertise with a really excessive ceiling, and it will likely be fascinating to see how his profession unfolds.
Competitors
Botham is one among a number of choices Wales might discover at blindside flanker.
One title that involves thoughts is Taine Plumtree, a Scarlets participant who began the primary autumn take a look at in opposition to Fiji however was finally dropped in favour of Botham.
Nonetheless, Plumtree has been taking part in effectively in West Wales, and it will likely be fascinating to see how he progresses via the season.
Another choice is Taine Basham, the Dragons participant who was unlucky to not get chosen for the autumn squad.
Basham brings plenty of physicality and aggression to the sport. Will probably be fascinating to see if he will get one other alternative within the well-known crimson jersey.
Lastly, Christ Tshiunza have to be a future consideration for the place.
The Chiefs participant has confirmed himself to be a constant performer for Exeter. Though nonetheless creating internationally, Tshiunza has the potential to turn into a dominant power within the coming years.
It stays to be seen who will turn into Wales’ main blindside participant.
If Botham persistently delivers phenomenal performances, he might turn into the clear selection for the place.
READ MORE: James Botham – We now have to remain constructive
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Author : rugby365
Publish date : 2024-11-21 12:32:23
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