The Welsh rugby community has been abuzz with excitement over the recent transition of former rugby league sensation, Regan Grace, to rugby union. Grace, who distinguished himself with St Helens in the Super League, has now signed a permanent contract with Bath, showcasing his remarkable speed and footwork as a prolific try scorer. This move has sparked speculation regarding his potential selection for the Welsh national team and the potential impact of the Welsh Rugby Union’s 25-cap rule on his Test ambitions.
Impressing in friendly matches against Gloucester and Leinster, Grace’s fresh start with Bath has captured the attention of fans and experts alike. With prominent figures like Louis Rees-Zammit in the NFL, Mason Grady’s future uncertain, and Josh Adams underperforming in the Six Nations, Grace emerges as a viable option to bolster Wales’ wing positions, provided he successfully adapts to the new code.
Despite his uncapped status, Grace’s eligibility for Wales could change if he is chosen for the national team and earns his first cap. His contract with Bath runs until the 2024/25 season, with the possibility of an additional year, presenting the possibility that he may not reach the required 25 caps before his current deal expires, thus potentially necessitating a move to a Welsh region to maintain his eligibility.
In a recent interview with WalesOnline, Grace revealed that he had contemplated returning to Wales before ultimately deciding to join Racing. He expressed his keenness to swiftly transition back to union to commence his learning process, underscoring his ambition and determination to represent his country in the future.
Johann van Graan, Grace’s coach at Bath, has commended him as possessing “something special inside of him”, while Clive Griffiths, a former Wales coach, has drawn comparisons between Grace and the legendary Shane Williams, praising his speed, agility, and try-scoring ability. Furthermore, Griffiths highlighted Grace’s physicality, stating, “He’s 5ft 10ins and just under 13st but he’s all muscle and he’s tough with it. Coming from Port Talbot, he knows how to look after himself and he can take a knock.”
With Grace’s undeniable talent and determination, the Welsh rugby community eagerly anticipates his journey in union and the possibility of witnessing him don the red jersey in the years to come. As he continues to make strides in a new code, his story is certainly one to monitor, and his potential impact on the international stage is undoubtedly a subject of great interest.