‘A physical specimen’ – Wales coach on Christ Tshiunza
Gethin Jenkins believes that lock forward Christ Tshiunza has all the attributes to be a top-class player ahead of Wales’ game against Fiji.
The Exeter Chiefs player was a shock call-up to the initial squad for the Autumn Nations Series having barely played for his club side.
Wayne Pivac evidently saw something special in him, however, and Tshiunza could make his debut for the national team from the bench.
At 6ft 6in and 17st 6lbs – and an ability to play in the second-row and back-row – he is a player that Wales’ coaching staff are rightly enthused by.
Realise his potential
“We can see something in him,” Wales defence coach Jenkins said.
“He is a physical specimen, chucks himself about and is a good lineout jumper, so hopefully he can realise some of his potential.
“It is good for him to be involved, and hopefully he wins his first cap.
“It has been a big journey for him, moving down to Exeter, and now this has come so quickly. We see a lot of potential in him, and we look forward to seeing him on the weekend.”
Wales’ end-of-year campaign has so far seen them well beaten by New Zealand before they were edged out 23-18 against world champions South Africa.
And while Wales will start as favourites to topple Fiji – their opening 2023 World Cup pool opponents – another stern test can be expected.
Jenkins added: “I don’t think Fiji are going to change much in the way they are going to play. They are very dangerous individually, and they always have that flair in the team.
“They haven’t changed for a while, but they are a quality team with threats from anywhere.
“You can get a break from anywhere with their offloads. They are so skilful in that part of the game, and that’s why they are such a good sevens team as well.
“It is hard to predict, and the only thing you can do is make sure your system is as well-organised as possible.
“We have got a pretty strong team out in terms of what we can select.
“They are probably missing a few too, so they will probably be stronger at the World Cup. But it would be good to go out this weekend and lay down a marker for two years’ time.”
Wayne Pivac hails Ellis Jenkins’ leadership qualities
Wales head coach Wayne Pivac has praised Ellis Jenkins after naming the back-row as skipper for their clash with Fiji.
The flanker only returned to the international game last weekend after three years out following a horrific knee injury.
Jenkins, 28, now leads from the start on Sunday, and Pivac said: “Ellis has certainly got leadership qualities, we know that.
“Where we are with the lack of leadership and captaincy experience lends itself to him taking the side this week. Certainly, we don’t think it’s going to hamper his game.
“He is an experienced player, he understands the game and he makes good decisions. He is a good communicator, good with referees and asks good questions.”