Wales' Six Nations breakout star, a ringing endorsement and a bold prediction that's bang on course

When Dewi Lake signed his first professional contract with the Ospreys, the question came in over whether the young hooker had been attracting interest from England.

The answer? “If he’s not attracting interest, no-one will,” a well-placed source at the region said. That was close on three years ago, just after after Lake had celebrated his 20th birthday.

'Special' outside-half heading for Wales

Few casual rugby observers were aware of his potential then, but Scott Baldwin was, having noted his progression coming through at the Ospreys. Baldwin, one of the most perceptive and interesting player-interviewees in the game, said he expected Lake to go places in Welsh rugby, and sooner rather than later. “If we’re looking ahead to the 2023 World Cup, I see him as Wales’ starting hooker,” said Baldwin. “He’s a big man who's strong, good around the field and he can scrummage. He has a lot of growth in him and the attitude to come through.”

There would be the odd bump in the road, predicted Baldwin, with former back-rower Lake likely to need help with his set-piece work. “I saw him at Bridgend at the start of the season, and I don’t think he’ll mind me saying this but he couldn’t hit a barn door with a handful of rice,” laughed the Wales hooker from the 2015 World Cup. “But he’s come on massively and is only going to get better and better.”

Call that sharp analysis. Lake has needed assistance with his throwing and has continued to make big progress on that front. He’s won five Wales caps already, including one as a starter, and has pleased the national coaches. Earlier this year, the 6ft 1in, 17st 4lb No. 2 was described as a ‘unique talent’ on the Welsh Rugby Union’s official website in a piece that referenced his