Head Coach Dai Flanagan believes Leon Brown can go and impress for Wales in the upcoming Six Nations – after going toe-to-toe with formidable South African powerhouse prop Ox Nche.
Brown made his first start of the season in the 29-9 defeat to Hollywoodbets Sharks at Rodney Parade and impressed – particularly in the set piece against the renowned Nche - despite the club’s exit from European competition.
The 27-year-old will now battle Cardiff’s Kieron Assiratti and Bath’s Archie Griffin for action when the Six Nations gets under way against Scotland in Cardiff on Saturday, February 3.
“I thought Leon was excellent against the best scrummaging loosehead in world rugby. We need to see that week to week,” said Flanagan.
“He has a perfect opportunity with Wales to show what he can do. He is very fit, injury-free and he was outstanding against Sharks.
“I thought he put his hand up (for Wales selection) and his rugby ability is unbelievable.
"He is a pure athlete who can play the game as a 3 like a back rower. We want to see more of that from Leon.
“Leon has been fit now for the last eight weeks. Even though he hasn’t had the game reps, which was my decision, he has had the training reps,” added Flanagan.
“He’s going to be tested over the next 12 weeks and he can go and change everyone’s perception of him for good in that time. It’s over to Leon.”
He is a pure athlete who can play the game as a 3 like a back rower. We want to see more of that from Leon...
