Why Thomas Young should, at least, be in the 23 for Wales v England
I agree with those who champion a back row of Josh Navidi at 6, Justin Tipuric at 7, and Ross Moriarty at 8 and even with those who laud Aaron Wainwright’s grunt as a bench option in response to England’s bosh merchants. Yet, were I Warren Gatland, I’d be tempted to give Thomas Young the back row bench spot because of his breakdown prowess and his carrying ability or, perhaps, even to start him at 6 with Tipuric at 7 and Navidi on the bench. I doubt Gats will take my advice but here’s the match day 23 I’d pick (at this very moment):
15. Liam Williams 14. George North 13. Jonathan Davies 12. Hadleigh Parkes 11. Josh Adams 10. Gareth Anscombe 9. Tomos Williams
1. Rob Evans 2. Ken Owens 3. Tomos Francis 4. Cory Hill 5. Alun Wyn Jones 6. Josh Navidi 7. Justin Tipuric 8. Ross Moriarty
16. Elliott Dee 17. Wyn Jones 18. Samson Lee 19. Jake Ball 20. Thomas Young 21. Gareth Davies 22. Dan Biggar 23. Owen Watkin