Morgan Morris: Why Wales must call up the Ospreys back row star
Yesterday at 08:47 AM
By Peter Ryan on his RUCK Debut
Auld Lang Syne is a Scottish phrase that translates roughly to “days gone by.” The song, penned by Scottish poet Robert Burns, is often used to reminisce.Warren Gatland has left a formidable legacy in Welsh rugby, but as a new era unfolds, Welsh rugby must cherish memories of the past while moving forward. The former coach’s departure may be the catalyst for kickstarting some international careers.
A player looking for an opportunity on the global stage will be Morgan Morris, a back-rower who has been on fire for Ospreys for many years. The number eight will be hungry to make his mark for Wales, and now that Wales will enter a new dawn, it could be his time to strike.
Morgan Morris – his career origins as a Hartpury hopeful
Morris’ talent is evident; he is a gifted player left waiting in the wings, but how long must he wait for a call-up from Wales? Hailing from Swansea and learning his craft at Penclawdd RFC, Morris had a strong foundation to build a prosperous rugby career.
Throughout the initial stages of his journey, his talent was unmistakable. He progressed through the Ospreys under-16 team before eventually moving across the Severn River to Hartpury College. This institution, known for developing elite talent, was instrumental in refining the back-rower’s abilities.
The college has produced talents such as Johnny May, Sebastien Negri, and Louis Rees-Zammit, clearly indicating that this is a place where talent is nurtured, refined, and elevated.
Throughout his career, Morris represented Wales at the under-20s level, which makes it even more surprising that he has yet to receive a senior call-up. With his skill set, Morris could be a real force in international rugby; this might be his time to prove it.
Ospreys Career – Morris spreads his wings in South Wales
There is a wealth of talent in the Ospreys back row, with the likes of Jac Morgan, Justin Tipuric, and Morgan Morse – all outstanding athletes in their own right. However, since debuting in 2018 against Connacht, Morris has been a towering presence in the Swansea-based team.
He has achieved over a hundred caps for his club and looks to be an integral part of this rejuvenated team under new head coach Mark Jones. His three consecutive Player of the Year awards prove his sensational contribution to the team in the 2020/21, 2021/22, and 2022/23 seasons.
Time moves forward, but the 26-year-old’s dominance remains; he continues to be one of the URC’s most relentless competitors. Morris is a furious powerhouse, with 166 carries, the second highest in the league, and he is second in the URC when it comes to successful carries with 75.
He has beaten 27 defenders and gained 350 metres this season. In defence, his work rate shines, making 129 tackles with an 85% success rate and securing nine turnovers. The Ospreys player unquestionably deserves a shot in a Wales jersey, and his performances leave no room for doubt.
Could a Wales Call-up Be on the Cards Soon?
While Welsh rugby is struggling, the back row remains an area of immense depth and talent. Morgan, Tommy Reffell, and Taulupe Faletau are all world-class in their own right, which means it is a competitive fight to get playing time in the Welsh back row. However, looking at the stats above, Morris has done more than enough to earn an opportunity to shine in the famous red jersey.
As stated before, due to the departure of Gatland, Welsh rugby is entering a new era, and with the side heading to Japan in the summer, it could provide the perfect opportunity for Morris to earn some caps. Morris’s selection for the Welsh team is clearly warranted, and his potential impact is undeniable. It’s time to support his journey to the national team.
Morris is a phenomenal player, a dynamic ball carrier, and a rock-solid defender. The 26-year-old could significantly boost a Wales team that could use a physical runner. His potential impact is undeniable, and it’s only a matter of time before he makes a real difference for his country.
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