Leicester prop Nicky Smith believes Wales’ strong presence in the English Premiership is leaving England players “scratching their heads” over the national side’s recent struggles.
Wales are still searching for their first Six Nations victory since March 2023 and will face England in London on Saturday in a crucial clash.
Despite winning only two of their last 23 international matches and suffering back-to-back whitewashes, Smith feels the quality within the squad tells a different story.
English Clubs Showcase Welsh Quality
Currently, 11 members of Wales’ Six Nations squad play their club rugby in England, while two are based in France.
Players such as Louis Rees-Zammit, Dafydd Jenkins and Tomos Williams continue to impress at club level, proving their ability week after week in competitive leagues.
Smith says English teammates regularly question how a team with so much talent struggles on the international stage.
Smith Ready for Tigers Showdown
The fixture could also see a Leicester-versus-Leicester battle, with Smith likely to face England prop Joe Heyes in the scrum.
Heyes has emerged as one of England’s key forwards over the past 18 months and has become a regular starter in the absence of injured teammates.
Smith praised his clubmate’s work rate and physicality, admitting he must be at his best to match him if selected.
Tandy Era Brings Fresh Optimism
This Six Nations marks Steve Tandy’s first campaign as Wales head coach after returning from Scotland last summer.
Although Wales endured heavy defeats in the autumn, including losses to Argentina, New Zealand and South Africa, there were signs of progress.
Smith believes the new coaching setup is helping the squad move in the right direction and insists brighter days are ahead.
With memories of last season’s heavy defeat still fresh, Wales are eager to compete strongly and remain in contests against Europe’s top sides.
“We want to be in those big moments again,” Smith said. “If we do that regularly, results will start coming.”
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