North Can Fire Wales' Six Nations Ambitions

North Can Fire Wales' Six Nations Ambitions

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IN years gone by, my wish for Welsh rugby in 2018 would have been totally out of the question. But now things are different and if I could wave my magic wand then in the 12 months ahead I want to see the Welsh Rugby Union and the four regions moving forward together.

In recent times it’s been difficult for the WRU and the regions to get on, there have been disagreements, fallings out, sackings and resignations.

It hasn’t helped anyone or the game in Wales as a whole progress, but as we go into the new year, I can sense a real change in direction now everyone is pulling together.

I think Martyn Phillips, the WRU chief executive, has played a hugely important role in that, working alongside the big wigs at the four regions. They’re finally all on the same page.

I’ve had limited dealings with Martyn, but watching from afar I’ve been hugely impressed by the impact he’s had in the role since taking it on.

Apart from probably Warren Gatland, Martyn has the hardest job in Welsh rugby as he has to marry everything together from the senior Wales side to grass roots level.

That’s why I’m positive about the way the relationship between the WRU and the regions is going into the next 12 months. On the whole, the game in Wales is going the right way and I’m hugely positive about the regions.

The Scarlets are the defending PRO12 champions and they’re playing some very good rugby at the moment. I expect them to be in the shake-up again towards the end of the PRO14 season.