The Rugby World Cup in 2023 was a rollercoaster ride for Wales. From thrilling victories to heartbreaking defeats, it was a tournament filled with highs and lows. Let’s take a look back at the standout moments – the good and the bad.
One of the best individual performances came from Jac Morgan in the game against Fiji. Not only did he contribute 21 tackles, setting a World Cup record, but he also showcased his skills by carrying the ball and even setting up a try with a cross-field kick. It was a performance that announced him as a rising star on the world stage.
When it comes to the best try, Gareth Davies’ opening score against Australia takes the cake. The seamless teamwork and precision in executing the play made it a thing of beauty. It was a moment that showcased the poetry in motion that rugby can be.
Throughout the tournament, there were also some significant milestones for Wales. Adam Beard won his 50th cap, Warren Gatland celebrated his 60th birthday, Dan Biggar became the first Welsh player to score 100 World Cup points, and George North appeared in his fourth quarter-final.
While the stars of the team often get the spotlight, it’s important to recognize the unsung heroes. Will Rowlands, a second-row player, proved to be a leader on and off the field. His recovery from a serious knee injury and his outstanding defensive performance, making 65 tackles in the tournament, made him an invaluable asset to the team.
But not all moments were memorable for the right reasons. Johnny Williams’ yellow card in the game against Portugal was a moment to forget. It cost him a chance to stake a claim for a starting position and left a mark on Wales’ World Cup campaign.
When it comes to rising stars, Dafydd Jenkins stood out. The 20-year-old lock showed all the attributes of a future Test player, with his grit, rugby intelligence, and impressive skills. His captaincy experience at Exeter Chiefs only adds to his potential.
The biggest disappointment for Wales came in their quarter-final match against Argentina in Marseille. They lost control of the game and couldn’t maintain the level of performance they had shown in the pool stages. It was a tough defeat to swallow.
As the tournament comes to an end, Wales will face the challenge of rebuilding their team. With retirements looming and key players potentially leaving, they will need to find a new number 10 to fill the void left by the retirement of Dan Biggar. It’s a new chapter for Welsh rugby, and only time will tell what the future holds.