There is something about Wales producing top-quality talent in the back row—the likes of Sam Warburton, Dan Lydiate, and Justin Tipuric are all among the game’s best.
While Welsh rugby has faced its share of challenges, the back row stands tall: a beacon of depth, talent, and potential.
Jac Morgan, Tommy Reffell, and Aaron Wainwright have all stood out in a team that has faced difficulties.
Wales are heading to Japan this summer, and a face familiar to Scarlets fans has been selected.
Josh Macleod has been a vital part of a promising Scarlets side. In fine form, it will be interesting to see what he can do on the international stage.
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His career
Crymych RFC is where Macleod’s love for rugby began, and in 2012, he joined the Scarlets academy.
Three years later, the Welshman made his debut for the only club he has played for. You don’t see many one-club players.
It speaks to his character, loyalty, and leadership, as he has made over 100 appearances for the West Wales club.
The flanker has won awards for defence and turnover ability. His leadership qualities were rewarded by being given the captain’s armband for the 2022–23 season.
That year, Macleod led a young squad to the Challenge Cup semi-final. Moving ahead to this season, with Macleod as captain once again, the Scarlets have made a massive step.
Taking his side to the play-offs and giving Leinster a scare didn’t go unnoticed. It suggests he can make a seismic impact on his country, and his potential to do so in Japan is a reason for Welsh fans to be hopeful.
Macleod represented Wales U20 in 2016 and then received call-ups for the senior side in 2020 and 2021. Injuries halted his dreams each time.
In 2022, he finally got to run out in the Principality Stadium and hear the roar of a passionate crowd. Macleod will likely be adding to his cap tally in Japan.
A great season
The Scarlets captain has truly led from the front. Macleod has produced some tremendous performances.
From the perspective of a statistician, Macleod has had a great season. With five tries, 210 tackles at an 85% success rate, and 18 turnovers, Macleod excelled in both attack and defence, starting every game he played.
Statistics only paint half the picture of his season. Whenever he was on the pitch, he gave the Scarlets an extra boost.
His wealth of experience will be critical to a young Welsh side, and don’t be surprised to see him stand out.
Wales are heading to Japan
Matt Sherratt will once again take the reins for Wales. The Welsh are in desperate need of a victory and will see this tour as a fantastic opportunity to get a win.
Only Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams are on the plane to Australia with the Lions. This means Wales practically heads to Japan with a full squad.
Victory must be expected, though pressure is mounting ahead of the tour. The hunger sharpened by two winless years, yet standing in their way is an ever-dangerous Eddie Jones-led Japan.
Macleod will be hoping to play a prominent role in getting Wales a much-needed win.
With grit in his game and fire in his heart, Macleod will be out to prove he belongs on the biggest stage in Welsh rugby.
By Pete Ryan
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