Warren Gatland’s frank admission on ‘explosive’ ex-league star Regan Grace ahead of Wales bow
Former rugby league star Regan Grace has been named in the Wales tarting XV this weekend
Wales head coach Warren Gatland is excited to see cross-code star Regan Grace don the Welsh jersey for the first time this weekend, but isn’t ‘expecting’ too much in his third game of rugby union.
The Bath-man crossed over to union from rugby league in 2022, after a decorated career with St Helens. During his time in the Red Vee, the winger helped the Saints win four Super League Grand Finals and one Challenge Cup. He also represented Wales at the 2017 World Cup.
Grace has been hampered by a persistent Achilles injury since making the leap into the 15-man-game, and has played just two friendlies for Bath.
Despite this, Wales boss Gatland had seen enough of the former league international to bring him on their tour of Australia, and speaking to the media ahead of their clash with the Reds, he detailed how close Grace came to his first senior cap against the Wallabies.
“We had a big discussion last week about whether we threw him in at the deep end in terms of a Test match,” said Gatland. “But we felt just a little bit more time in the environment would be good.”
“He has been recovering from a pretty horrendous Achilles injury that he had – and then redid again. He has taken time in terms of his rehab and making sure he has done everything right.
“He is sharp, explosive and we’ve got to try and make sure we get the ball in his hands as much as we can, but not have too many high expectations.
“He has not played a lot of rugby since coming from league. There will be no pressure on him from my part. Just enjoy it and see what he can do.”
Wholesale changes to Wales squad ahead of Reds clash
Grace is one of a number of changes to the Wales squad from their 36-28 defeat to Australia last weekend.
Cory Hill has, rather controversially, been named captain for the game at Suncorp Stadium this weekend, and Matthew Screech, Nick Tompkins, Evan Lloyd and Gareth Davies also come into the staring XV.
“I have been pleased with the growth we’ve seen in the squad over the last three or four weeks, and that growth will continue,” Gatland continued.
“We are expecting a good challenge from the Reds and know they will be up for this fixture.
“I am looking to see us stay in the moment and keep scanning for opportunities, as well as being alert to threats. Little efforts will make the difference.”
Wales come into the game looking for their first win in nine matches.