MAX Llewellyn hopes his all-too-brief but “crazy” experience with the Barbarians can help him go to the next level with Cardiff Blues.
The 21-year-old centre was called up to one of rugby's most famous sides for their clash with England at Twickenham as a last-minute replacement.
In the end the game was abandoned after Barbarians players breached Covid-19 rules.
It cost the RFU a million and robbed England of a game, but also left Llewellyn counting a missed opportunity.
The son of former Wales lock Gareth said: “It was crazy getting the phone call asking if I wanted to play for the Barbarians. It was up there just behind being selected to play for Wales.
“It was a really good experience going down there and meeting all the people even though we didn't get to play. There were a few internationals in the camp and it was nice to experience it alongside Will Boyde and Ioan Davies. I'd love to go back and finish it off and play a game for the Barbarians.
“I nearly achieved something my dad (right), didn't, but I also have a long way to go to equal what he did in rugby.
“My dad never really pushed me to play rugby, but he helps me try and get to the next level.”
Wales U20 man Llewellyn is set to get a chance to impress for the Blues against Edinburgh on Monday night with firstchoice midfield pairing Willis Halaholo and Rey Lee-Lo nursing injuries.
Lee-Lo is recovering from being knocked unconscious in the defeat by Ulster and won't feature in the Scottish capital. Halaholo was a late withdrawal from the Ulster game with a knee problem. “I was fortunate enough to be in the first team environment last season and everyone around the club has been fantastic in helping me. I've really enjoyed it so far,” Llewellyn said.
“It's been a great experience. Willis and Rey are great for me. They give me little pointers, but also watching them and seeing the lines they run is something I can then try and replicate myself.
“There were a few knocks and bumps against Ulster so hopefully I can get some game time in Edinburgh. They've been a good team for a while so we know what to expect from them.
“It's going to have to be a big performance from us to get a win.”
John Mulvihill's side are second in the PRO14's Conference B. They won their first two games against Zebre and Connacht before suffering consecutive losses to Munster and Ulster.
Teams will be announced today.
