Ben Thomas Embraces Centre Role Amid Wales' Six Nations Revival

Ben Thomas expresses his comfort in returning to the centre position for Wales, as the team looks to rejuvenate their Six Nations campaign under interim coach Matt Sherratt.

Ben Thomas, the versatile Welsh rugby player, has found his stride back in the centre position, a spot he feels most at ease with. After a stint at fly-half during the initial matches of the Six Nations, Thomas was reverted to his more familiar role by interim head coach Matt Sherratt, following a series of disappointing results under Warren Gatland.

Thomas, who has played 10 internationals for Wales, credits Sherratt for the tactical shift that saw him form a strong midfield partnership with Max Llewellyn and fellow fly-half Gareth Anscombe. This move was instrumental in Wales' improved performances, particularly in their closely contested game against Ireland.

"Playing at inside centre feels more natural to me," Thomas remarked. "The game plan we adopted mirrors what I'm used to at Cardiff, making the transition seamless." He also highlighted Sherratt's influence on his development, noting the coach's preference for a ball-playing 12, which has allowed him to enhance aspects of his game he hadn't previously considered.

Rekindling Passion for Welsh Rugby

Thomas hopes that the team's recent displays will reignite the public's passion for Welsh rugby. The match against Scotland in Edinburgh is seen as another opportunity to showcase this renewed spirit. Despite a record 15th successive Test match defeat, the performance against the Six Nations title favorites Ireland was a testament to the positive changes within the squad.

"Our goal was to bring back some positivity," Thomas explained. "Focusing on an exciting brand of rugby that could endear us to the fans again. We aim to maintain this approach against Scotland."

The Impact of Matt Sherratt

Sherratt's immediate effect on the team has been palpable. Transitioning from losses against France and Italy to challenging Ireland, the interim coach has managed to extract a competitive edge from the Welsh side. His clear communication and strategic acumen have been pivotal in this turnaround.

"Sherratt's rugby intellect is remarkable," Thomas added. "He was able to convey his strategies effectively, despite the limited time, and the team responded well."

Looking Ahead

Wales has a commendable record against Scotland in Edinburgh, having won six of the last eight encounters. With the upcoming game, Thomas and his teammates are eager to continue their form and hopefully secure a much-needed victory.

"The atmosphere within the squad is positive," Thomas shared. "We're excited to play our brand of rugby and hopefully, the results will follow."

Red Card Experiment

In the match against Ireland, Thomas was at the centre of a controversial incident involving a 20-minute red card shown to Irish centre Garry Ringrose. Despite the setback, Thomas supports the new red card rule, acknowledging its intent to balance the game's competitiveness.

"I understand the rule's purpose," Thomas stated. "While it was frustrating to see Ireland regain their full strength, it’s a fair concept that enhances the game's integrity."

What to Read Next

Lions 2025 Tour: Triumph, Heartbreak, and Legacy in Australian Rugby Showdown
Rugby

Lions 2025 Tour: Triumph, Heartbreak, and Legacy in Australian Rugby Showdown

Comprehensive analysis of the British & Irish Lions' 2025 Australian tour featuring player ratings, pivotal moments, and the dramatic 2-1 series victory against the Wallabies.

Ireland's Redemption Quest: Monaghan Leads Charge in Historic Women's Rugby World Cup Clash
Rugby

Ireland's Redemption Quest: Monaghan Leads Charge in Historic Women's Rugby World Cup Clash

Ireland co-captain Sam Monaghan reflects on three years of rebuilding ahead of their pivotal World Cup opener against Japan, as the team aims to prove their resurgence on rugby's biggest stage.

England Triumphs Over Lightning Delays and USA in Thrilling Rugby Showdown
Rugby

England Triumphs Over Lightning Delays and USA in Thrilling Rugby Showdown

England secured a commanding 40-5 victory against the USA despite two lightning-induced delays in Washington, showcasing their depth with six tries and maintaining a perfect three-win summer tour record.

Wallabies' Valetini Declares Fit for Lions Showdown: 'Hunger to Perform' Ignites Do-or-Die Melbourne Clash
Rugby

Wallabies' Valetini Declares Fit for Lions Showdown: 'Hunger to Perform' Ignites Do-or-Die Melbourne Clash

Australian flanker Rob Valetini confirms fitness for critical Lions Test as Wallabies prepare to unleash physical response at iconic MCG arena in series-deciding showdown.

Juarno Augustus: Ulster's New Powerhouse Poised to Dominate the URC Stage
Rugby

Juarno Augustus: Ulster's New Powerhouse Poised to Dominate the URC Stage

Ulster veteran Rob Herring hails new signing Juarno Augustus as a game-changing force ahead of Edinburgh clash, while reflecting on squad renewal and Ireland ambitions.

Rugby Union Demystified: A Comprehensive Guide to Key Terms, Tactics, and Scoring Strategies
Rugby

Rugby Union Demystified: A Comprehensive Guide to Key Terms, Tactics, and Scoring Strategies

Explore the fundamentals of rugby union with an in-depth breakdown of scoring methods, key terms like scrum and ruck, and tactical insights. Perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike.

Welsh Rugby's Lions Ambition: Rising to the Challenge of New Zealand 2029
Rugby

Welsh Rugby's Lions Ambition: Rising to the Challenge of New Zealand 2029

British & Irish Lions chairman Ieuan Evans inspires Wales' rugby stars to target 2029 New Zealand tour, building on Jac Morgan's impactful Lions debut and revitalizing Welsh rugby ambitions.

New Era Begins: Ojomoh Leads England's Fresh Faces Against USA in Washington Showdown
Rugby

New Era Begins: Ojomoh Leads England's Fresh Faces Against USA in Washington Showdown

England unveils three debutants including Bath's Max Ojomoh as they face USA in crucial World Cup preparation match, with Feyi-Waboso returning from suspension at Audi Field.

Cardiff Rugby Seek Thomond Park Breakthrough in URC Showdown Against Munster
Rugby

Cardiff Rugby Seek Thomond Park Breakthrough in URC Showdown Against Munster

Cardiff Rugby aims to end 7-year Irish drought as they face Munster in pivotal URC clash at Thomond Park. Can their revamped squad replicate last season's heroic home performance?

Max Llewellyn: Gloucester's Welsh Powerhouse Primed for International Dominance
Rugby

Max Llewellyn: Gloucester's Welsh Powerhouse Primed for International Dominance

Wales center Max Llewellyn reflects on his career resurgence at Gloucester Rugby and ambitions to cement his place in Wales' new era under coach Steve Tandy through Premiership performances.

Thunderous Triumph: Wallabies Defy Odds to Deny Lions Series Sweep in Sydney Deluge
Rugby

Thunderous Triumph: Wallabies Defy Odds to Deny Lions Series Sweep in Sydney Deluge

Australia's gritty 22-14 victory over the British & Irish Lions in torrential conditions prevents series whitewash, showcasing Wallabies' resilience and emerging talent in dramatic final Test.

Wales Co-Captain Alex Callender Fit for World Cup Opener: Key Boost Against Scotland
Rugby

Wales Co-Captain Alex Callender Fit for World Cup Opener: Key Boost Against Scotland

Wales co-captain Alex Callender overcomes injury to lead the team in their crucial Rugby World Cup 2025 opener against Scotland. Key lineup changes and tactical insights revealed as both nations vie for Pool B dominance.

Leicester Tigers Stage Epic Premiership Comeback to Stun Harlequins 29-19
Rugby

Leicester Tigers Stage Epic Premiership Comeback to Stun Harlequins 29-19

Leicester Tigers complete remarkable second-half turnaround from 19-0 down against Harlequins, securing new head coach Geoff Parling's first Premiership victory in dramatic fashion.

England and Leicester Tigers Star George Martin Sidelined Until 2026: A Major Blow for Club and Country
Rugby

England and Leicester Tigers Star George Martin Sidelined Until 2026: A Major Blow for Club and Country

England lock George Martin faces extended absence until 2026 following shoulder surgery, dealing a significant setback to Leicester Tigers and Steve Borthwick's national team plans during critical Premiership and international campaigns.

Turmoil and Tenacity: Scotland's Rocky Road to Rugby World Cup Redemption
Rugby

Turmoil and Tenacity: Scotland's Rocky Road to Rugby World Cup Redemption

Amid contract conflicts and coaching changes, Scotland's women's rugby team battles internal turmoil while seeking World Cup glory. Can they overcome adversity against Wales and rewrite their tournament narrative?

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.