Wales’ former captain, Sam Warburton, has expressed his support for the potential selection of a young player as captain for Wales in the upcoming Rugby World Cup. Warburton himself was appointed captain at the age of 22 for the 2011 World Cup, making him the youngest player to lead Wales in the tournament. He believes that a similar scenario may unfold for the 2023 World Cup, with a fresh face being chosen as captain due to the absence of hooker Ken Owens, who was ruled out through injury after captaining the team in this year’s Six Nations.
Warburton draws parallels between his own appointment and the current situation, explaining that his opportunity came about when captain Matthew Rees suffered an injury prior to the 2011 World Cup. Likewise, Owens’ injury and subsequent absence from the tournament may create an opportunity for a young player to step into the crucial leadership role. However, Warburton acknowledges that the final decision will not be announced until after the three World Cup warm-up matches, as it would be unwise to place unnecessary pressure on a captain who may potentially get injured during these games.
While there is speculation around several players who could potentially take on the captaincy role, Warburton highlights Jac Morgan as the frontrunner. Morgan’s personality, performances for Wales, and his record of durability make him a strong candidate in Warburton’s eyes. However, he also mentions the possibility of a co-captain arrangement if players like Tommy Reffell, who play in the number seven position, impress in the warm-up matches leading up to the World Cup. Ultimately, the final decision will be made based on fitness and form.
Warburton also addresses the recent retirements of key players, such as Alun Wyn Jones, Justin Tipuric, and Rhys Webb, emphasizing that their absence may not be as detrimental as it may seem. He explains that the coaching group assembled in 2019 would not have expected these players to make it to the World Cup, and their retirements open the door for younger players to showcase their abilities. Warburton commends the brave decisions made by Jones and Tipuric, considering their age and family commitments, and acknowledges that it is time for the next generation of players to shine on the international stage.
In conclusion, while the captaincy decision for Wales’ Rugby World Cup campaign is yet to be announced, Sam Warburton believes that a young player, such as Jac Morgan, may be chosen to follow in his footsteps. With several retirements in recent weeks, Wales will rely on its emerging talent to make their mark on the global stage. The final decision will be made based on performances in the warm-up matches and the coaching staff’s assessment of fitness and form.
