New kids on the block... could be set to make an

THE new season is almost upon us and while the buildup has been filled with boardroom drama, Wales' four professional clubs are gearing up for the latest United Rugby Championship campaign.

- STEFFAN THOMAS

Expectations aren't high due to the uncertainty off the field, with a reduction from four to two professional teams a real possibility over the next few seasons, while the Welsh clubs do not have the same spending power as many of their URC rivals.

But what that means is they will be forced to rely on a number of promising youngsters who could get game time this season.

Last season the likes of Macs Page, Tom Bowen and Ryan Woodman, among others, were blooded in the URC competition.

These are a the talented young players who could really break into the senior setups this season.

WILL EVANS

THE 20-year-old lock made a big impression in the early stages of last season's Super Rygbi Cymru for Llandovery before picking up an injury and is highly regarded by the Wales U20s management.

At 6ft 5in and 18st 5lbs, Evans is a giant physical specimen who has the size and power to make a real impact on the professional game in the future.

Evans is an old fashioned lock in that he does the unglamorous and unseen dirty work, which allows others to thrive.

He is also a powerful carrier in the tight exchanges capable of making significant gains.

Sam Lousi, Max Douglas, Jake Ball and Jac Price are currently ahead of Evans in the pecking order but if Evans can stay fit he has a good chance of getting game time in the URC this season.

HARRY REES-WELDON

THE 20-year-old has already broken into the Dragons team but expect to see more of the powerful wing this season.