Byron Hayward has used the example of his big four from 2022 to highlight how quickly things can change for up-and-coming players as Wales start their U20 Six Nations campaign this evening (7pm kick-off).
The head coach's team take on Ireland U20s in Colwyn Bay.
It’s the start of a new chapter, with the group that reached the final of the 2022 Summer Series in Italy having broken up. Joe Hawkins, Dafydd Jenkins, Christ Tshiunza and Mason Grady, among the leading lights from that squad, have all moved on to the senior Wales scene, a point the head coach hasn’t been slow to make as he looks to rev up the next generation.
Hayward said: “There is no bigger carrot for those boys. Things can change very quickly. We always say it every year but this is the best example – I know Christ was there before, but the other three boys had never been near it, so I think that’s probably a better example now than ever before.
“We don’t need to say a lot as it’s there for everyone to see. It’s great to see them there, and it’s good for the Wales U20 programme, and it’s good for the boys as it proves there is a proper pathway for them."
Wales field 10 new caps in their starting line-up against Ireland, with Ryan Woodman, Archie Hughes, Dan Edwards, Harri Houston and Cam Winnett the only home players on view who have featured at this level before.
Ireland also have a fresh look, with just three survivors from last season’s Grand Slam-winning campaign.
A new chapter starts for each side, then. We are about to be passed clues as to whether the future is set to be green or red.
The match is being broadcast live on S4C, but if you can't get in front of the box you can follow live updates on our live blog below:
Wales U20: Cameron Winnett (Cardiff
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