Scarlets fly-half Ioan Lloyd’s journey towards earning a place in Wales’s national rugby team has been a challenging one. After waiting for three years for another opportunity to prove himself, Lloyd is well aware of the difficulties of breaking into the world of Test rugby.
In 2020, at the age of 19, Lloyd made his debut on the field against Georgia. However, due to the global pandemic, the typical fanfare was absent from the empty Parc y Scarlets. His parents were unable to attend the momentous occasion, leaving Lloyd feeling a sense of emptiness.
Speaking on the Scrum V podcast, Lloyd expressed gratitude for representing his country but acknowledged the lack of the celebratory experience he had hoped for. Despite this, he remains determined to strive for a better chance at Test rugby. His ultimate goal has always been to wear the red jersey and represent Wales, a dream he has cherished since childhood.
Now 22, Lloyd is focused on earning more caps for the Welsh national team, despite the challenges posed by teammates Johnny Williams and Kieran Hardy. He is determined to prove himself worthy of the coveted number ten jersey as he looks ahead to the upcoming Six Nations tournament.
Back at Scarlets, Lloyd is guided by head coach Dwayne Peel, who recognizes his natural talent. Emulating the abilities of Shaun Johnson and Welsh talent James Hook, Lloyd is determined to make a lasting impact in the sport he loves.
As Lloyd prepares for a Boxing Day showdown against Ospreys, he remains committed to his lofty ambitions. He understands the significance of representing his team and community, emphasizing the importance of giving his all in every match.
As Lloyd continues his pursuit of further Wales appearances, the future looks promising for this resilient and determined fly-half. His story is one of perseverance, dedication, and an unrelenting passion for the game.