Wales: Warren Gatland’s newest star ‘willing to accept the challenge’ of Test rugby after ‘shock’ call-up
Wales' new star is ready for the challenge of international rugby
New Wales winger Blair Murray is still in shock over how quickly his call-up to Warren Gatland’s squad has come about – but he is more than willing to ‘accept the challenge’.
The New Zealand-native only moved to the Scarlets this season, but he has impressed in his five URC outings to date.
“I know it’s not going to be easy”
Murray has previously featured for New Zealand schools during his early career, but this will be his first time in a senior international set-up, and it’s something he is relishing.
“When I knew I was coming over I wanted to push for the Wales squad,” he said. “I didn’t think it would happen this fast so it was quite a shock.
“I don’t fully know what to expect, but I know it’s not going to be easy, although I’m willing to accept the challenge and get a part of it.”
Warren Gatland weighs in on 20-minute red card rule ahead of Autumn Nations Series
Wales face Fiji, Australia and South Africa in successive weekends across November, and there will be plenty of fans looking for a promo code for Betano or others to back Warren Gatland’s men in the first Autumn Tests for two years.
Murray, born and raised in New Zealand but eligible for Wales through his mother, opened up on the emotional conversation he had with her after getting the call-up for the series.
“I had to wait until 6pm here until they (Murray’s parents) woke up, but I called them as soon as they woke up and they were stoked. Although, they were still half-asleep when I was talking to them on the phone!”
He added: “There were a few tears. She (Murray’s Mum) always wanted me to wear the red jersey so hopefully I’ll get an opportunity in November. She was over the moon.”
Murray also detailed how he’d always had a soft spot for Wales growing up, despite him supporting the All Blacks.
“I was an All Blacks supporter first growing up, but Wales was a close second,” he said. “Mum was always a Welsh supporter though.”
“Whenever the match-up (between New Zealand and Wales) came about, it was everyone wearing black and Mum was in the red top. It was a funny dynamic!”
Murray is one of just two uncapped players in Gatland’s squad this time around, with Gloucester lock Freddie Thomas also drafted in, and the pair could be in line to win their first cap when Wales take on Fiji next month.
