Joe Hawkins embraced his return to Welsh rugby last summer for high-stakes clashes like the upcoming showdown at Principality Stadium, where he will confront a formidable trio of Scottish Lions players.
Recent Return to International Action
The 23-year-old Scarlets centre earned his eighth cap during Wales’ recent loss to France in Cardiff. This marked his first Six Nations outing since the 2023 victory over Italy in Rome, Wales’ last championship success. Hawkins had transferred from Ospreys to Exeter at the end of that season and missed selection due to the Welsh Rugby Union’s overseas player policy.
“A key reason for my return to Wales was to rejoin the national squad and compete in top tournaments like this,” Hawkins explained. He added, “No international competition rivals the Six Nations. It’s thrilling to be back in the mix.”
Hawkins rejoined Scarlets last year and started against New Zealand and South Africa in the autumn series. Selected ahead of Cardiff’s Ben Thomas for the France match, he paired with fly-half Dan Edwards and outside centre Eddie James for the first time at test level. The trio holds 23 caps combined.
Clash with Scotland’s Experienced Backs
They now prepare to test themselves against Scotland’s established partnership of Finn Russell, Sione Tuipulotu, and Huw Jones. This Glasgow trio toured Australia with the British and Irish Lions last summer, combining in the first Test, and boasts 186 caps for Scotland.
France exposed Wales’ defensive vulnerabilities with dynamic ball-carrying, and Scotland presents another stern challenge. “Their centre pairing is well-settled, making this an ideal test,” Hawkins noted. “Tuipulotu carries powerfully with subtle skills, while Huw Jones adds pace and sharp lines—they mesh perfectly.”
The Scarlets duo of Hawkins and James could hold firm against challengers like Ben Thomas and returning Ospreys centre Owen Watkin.
James’ Rising Promise
At 23 and 6ft 3ins, Eddie James displayed potential with the ball against France. “He overcame an off-season injury and has since been dominant in carries and tackles for Scarlets,” Hawkins said, recalling their Wales Under-20s partnership. “He’s brought that physicality to the Six Nations. With big players like him, you feed them the ball often.”
Defensive Fixes and Attacking Ambition
Wales conceded 15 tries and 102 points across the first two rounds, highlighting defensive priorities. Yet Hawkins’ playmaking—having featured at fly-half for Scarlets early in the season—fuels attacking threats.
“We aim to deliver exciting rugby for the nation,” he stated. “Top teams stick to their style, like France, who excel by doubling down. After tough results, we stay committed to our approach and keep pushing forward.”
