Dewi Lake may not be able to be on the pitch during this Six Nations as he recovers from a hamstring and groin tear, but it doesn’t mean he hasn’t been watching avidly.

Wales’ World Cup co-captain admits he doesn’t know “how to stop” being an avid fan despite finding it “tough” not being a part of Warren Gatland’s side.

Speaking on this week’s Sportin Wales podcast, Dewi Lake speaks about captaincy, the future of Welsh rugby and the players that have stood out for him.

 

‘Unlucky’ Wales

Wales’ first two losses, by a point to Scotland and two to England left them ruing missed opportunities but balancing that with the prospect of an exciting young team.

In Lake’s opinion, Wales have been “unlucky” to be zero from three so far in the Six Nations.

“Wales have put some really nice stuff together, but it’s just been that final hurdle,” said Lake.

“The Scotland game it was that first hurdle, the first half, but the second was great, Scotland just had enough points on the board.

“It was the opposite in the England game, incredible first half, but the final 20 minutes they let England back into the game.”

Wales then travelled to Dublin in week three to face an Irish side aiming to make history as the first side to record back-to-back Grand Slams in the Six Nations era.

“Against Ireland it was more like the Scotland game, 17-0 down that first half, but Wales had their chances,” said Lake.

“The defence stood out in that game against probably the best team on the world stage right now.”

 

Youngsters shining bright

With the international retirements of Dan Biggar, Leigh Halfpenny, Alun Wyn Jones and Justin Tipuric in 2023 and the injuries to Jac Morgan and Taulupe Faletau, Wales have been forced to look for alternative options.

This has seen Wales field some young players, with half an eye to the next World Cup cycle.

Speaking on the podcast, Lake was full of praise for two players who made their debuts this Six Nations.

“Against England, Cam Winnett was outstanding again,” said Lake.

“He’s been a real gem in this Six Nations.

“Also, Alex Mann, he’s been awesome in the jersey so far.”

Lake also said the performance of forwards Gareth Thomas and Tommy Reffell in their backs to the wall display against Ireland was “class”, a game where Reffell was the top tackler with 21.

 

Experience crucial to bring youngsters through

For Winnett, Mann and Mackenzie Martin, who made his debut against Ireland, this year has been a real whirlwind in their first full professional seasons.

All three have since received contract extensions at their region Cardiff, seeing them extend their progress in Welsh rugby.

Lake is at pains to stress the role experienced players such as Gareth Davies, Adam Beard and Tomos Williams have in bringing the youngsters through.

“You look at the talent in that squad at a very young age, it is a group that has a lot of potential,” said Lake.

“International rugby is a step up from regional rugby, so having those boys there as well will really help guide the young players at the minute.

“In a couple of years’ time, if the young boys keep developing at the rate they are, they’ll be incredible.”

While patience is the word for such a young team, international rugby is a results-based business.

Having spent the last three games watching as a supporter, Lake understands the appetite for immediate success.

“It’s tough as a fan to watch because you always want to win,” said Lake.

“That’s always the tough bridge to cross, watching and thinking ‘In a couple of years you’ll be incredible’ but you want to win now from a selfish fan perspective.”

Hopefully, Wales can return to winning ways at the Principality Stadium against France on Sunday.

Dewi Lake was speaking on Episode 10 of Sportin Wales’ podcast which is out now.