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Tandy's Wales: What to Expect in the Six Nations

BBC Sport •
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Steve Tandy takes charge of Wales in the upcoming Six Nations, aiming to revitalize a squad struggling for form. The team hasn't celebrated a victory in the competition since 2023. Facing England in the opener, Wales hopes to improve upon a disappointing autumn series. Tandy emphasizes performance over immediate results, focusing on building team connection and closing the gap with top nations.

Key to Wales' approach is man management and team cohesion, highlighted by flanker Josh Macleod. The attack, shaped by Matt Sherratt, showed promise in the autumn with improved try-scoring. However, defensive frailties remain a concern. Wales must minimize penalties and improve discipline to compete. Louis Rees-Zammit's shift to full-back aims to counter England's kicking game.

England's focus on kicking presents a challenge, with Wales anticipating many contestable kicks. Wales must vary their attack, utilizing both short kicks and grubbers from Tomos Williams and Dan Edwards. Former player Scott Baldwin believes the team's tight bond gives hope for progress. The goal is to force England into making high-pressure plays and cause an upset.

Wales must reduce penalties and improve discipline, as they conceded many last year. Tandy's squad is working with referees to ensure they are on top of everything. The team aims to attack the game both with and without the ball. Wales' performance against England will set the tone for their Six Nations campaign, especially given their recent struggles.