Louie Hennessey: Wales are ‘dark horses’ for 2027 Rugby World Cup

Louie Hennessey has warned England to watch out for Wales in next year’s World Cup.

When the two sides met at Twickenham last month, England romped to a 48-7 victory, although the wheels then came off their chariot.

Wales went from the depths of despair to renewed hope and finished the campaign with victory over Italy, their first in the tournament for three years, and more in the way of confidence than England, who finished with four defeats.

Bath centre Hennessey made his Wales debut against Ireland in Dublin when he came off the bench to replace Ellis Mee, having been part of the squad in the autumn.

Hope to belief

Wales are in England’s World Cup group in Australia next year, along with Tonga and Zimbabwe, and Hennessey believes they will be dark horses Down Under.

“We are definitely building,” said Hennessey, who was born in Cardiff. “It turned from hope to belief during the tournament and we saw successful aspects come out in different matches.

“It was the set-piece against France, the defence against Scotland and our attack against Ireland and Italy – Rhys Carre’s try in Dublin has to rank among the best.

“We are growing in confidence and that comes through experiences.

“We had honest conversations after the England game, but they were not too tough. Discipline was the big talking point and we have had referees in camp.

“We definitely progressed and we are building for the World Cup. I think we will be a very tough team to play when we get there and it is an exciting time for Welsh fans.

“We have a good young squad and we saw in the Six Nations Eddie James take his chance. He had a great campaign and that is what it is about, taking your opportunity.”

Hopeful: Wales centre Louie Hennessey
PICTURE: Getty Images

Worked hard

Hennessey has been used regularly by Bath this season, appearing in the Premiership and Champions Cup, and aims to add to his cap in the summer when the Nations Championship kicks off.

“I got a taste for that level having worked hard to get there,” he said. “It was a proud day for me and my family and I want to win more caps. I have had a taste and it drives me on for more.

“That means kicking on with Bath and getting more success here. We have world-class players here in a world-class environment and you learn something every day in training.”

Hennessey has played in the centre and on the wing for Bath this season and features in today’s clash against Sale Sharks in Salford.

“Centre is my preferred position, but I just want to be on the pitch,” said Hennessey. “I am excited to be back at Bath and it is about taking my chances when they come.

“Sale will be a real test against a very good team and we will have to bring our A game,” added Hennessey who marks his 22nd birthday today, looking for a double celebration ahead of Saturday’s Champions Cup last 16 clash with Saracens at The Rec.