Blair Murray, a wing player for Scarlets, is poised to earn his first cap for Wales as they prepare to face the FIJI Water Flying Fijians in Cardiff on Monday. At 23 years old, Murray was raised in New Zealand but is eligible to represent Wales through his Welsh mother, who hails from Tonyrefail, south Wales.
Murray developed his skills at the Crusaders academy in New Zealand and played for Canterbury in local competitions before moving to Wales earlier this year. He joined Scarlets this summer and has participated in six games thus far. His inclusion in Wales’ autumn squad positions him as a contender for a starting role, potentially taking the place of Rio Dyer.
In addition to Murray, Cardiff players Ben Thomas and Mason Grady may return to their usual positions after experimenting with different roles during the summer. Thomas, who played as a fly-half during two Tests in Australia, is expected to resume his position as inside centre. Meanwhile, Grady is set to return to the wing alongside Max Llewellyn, who has been called back to the squad following impressive performances with Gloucester.
Llewellyn could be making only his second start, while the team includes three players from Gloucester, with key half-backs Tomos Williams and Gareth Anscombe returning after injury absences. Anscombe has been out of international play for over a year due to a groin injury, adding to the anticipation surrounding his return.
Ospreys flanker Jac Morgan is still dealing with a minor injury, which could see Leicester’s Tommy Reffell continue in the number seven position. Morgan might serve as a replacement, contributing to a bench that may feature up to six forwards. Bath’s Archie Griffin has overcome a temporary heart condition and is expected to retain his spot in the front row. Additionally, locks Adam Beard and Will Rowlands are set to make a comeback after their absence in the summer.
Wales faces a challenging context, having lost their last nine international matches, which extends a tough streak lasting 13 months. A potential defeat against Fiji would push Wales to equal a record for ten consecutive losses, last seen in the early 2000s.
Wales will compete against Fiji at 1:40 AM on Monday (Fiji Time) and will subsequently face Australia and South Africa later in November.
This match could serve as a turning point for the Welsh team, providing an opportunity to break the losing streak and gain some much-needed confidence heading into the latter part of the season. It’s a chance for new talent like Murray to shine on the international stage and for returning veterans to restore pride in the Welsh jersey.
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