Welsh Players to Watch: Rising Stars in the Upcoming URC Season
Image Credit: Marc
As we enter a new season of the URC, there is hope around the Welsh regions as fans look forward to better results this year. The four clubs boast tremendous talent, and their players have the potential to win. However, three players, in particular, stand out as having the potential for phenomenal seasons.
Callum Sheedy
The fly-half from the Bristol Bears is joining Cardiff this season. Callum Sheedy is an exceptional player who will significantly improve Cardiff's performance with his extensive experience. The Welshman brings an impressive attacking flair to his game and causes trouble for defences. On a broader scale, Sheedy will be eager to perform well as it could help him return to the Wales squad. At 28, he will see this as the perfect opportunity to reclaim his place in the national team, especially given Wales' ongoing struggles at number 10. Despite Cardiff's lack of significant results last year, the team played some exciting rugby and showed promise at times. Adding Sheedy should help them climb the league table next season.
Morgan Morse
Wales is rich in back-row talent, but one young player who stands out is Morgan Morse. The rising star, who plays his club rugby at the Ospreys, has impressed with his dynamic running, defensive prowess, and ability to produce moments of magic. His try against Cardiff at the Brewery Field, for example, wowed fans nationwide. Morse has also been a standout player in the under-20s set-up. Although many called for his inclusion in the senior squad for the Australia test, Warren Gatland ultimately decided against it. Morse still has plenty of time to develop, making him an excellent prospect for the senior squad. Nevertheless, he is likely to have another great campaign this year.
Liam Belcher
Liam Belcher was a standout player for Cardiff last year, earning him the Peter Thomas Player of the Year award. He made a real impact every time he was on the field. Despite these positive performances, the hooker was not called up to the Wales squad, which was surprising given the lack of depth in that position. One could argue that Belcher was one of the best in his position in Wales last year. With a fantastic skill set, Belcher is excellent over the ball, and his defensive work is ferocious. If he can replicate the same level of performance as last season, there is no reason why he shouldn't be included in the Wales squad next year.
All these players are exceptional and will be looking to take the URC by storm this coming season.
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