Olly Cracknell has pinpointed a crucial turning point for Wales as they desperately seek a long-awaited victory in the Six Nations tournament. Wales are set to host Italy in the final round this Saturday, with the team determined to snap a dismal 15-match losing run in the competition.
Wales' Struggle and Recent Improvements
The Welsh side endured heavy defeats in their opening matches against England and France, but showed signs of resilience in narrow losses to Scotland and Ireland in the subsequent rounds. Under the guidance of coach Steve Tandy, Wales are now focused on avoiding a third consecutive winless Six Nations campaign, adding significant pressure to the upcoming clash with Italy.
Cracknell's Optimistic Assessment
When asked if Wales had turned a corner during their close match in Dublin, where they trailed by just one score with four minutes remaining, number eight Olly Cracknell expressed confidence. "I think so. To be honest, I felt that in the France game," he stated. "You look back on the result and just think 'Oh, that's a write-off'. But it didn't feel like that."
Cracknell elaborated on his belief in the team's potential, saying, "I actually felt if we just do what we said we were going to do, and set out to play the way we're supposed to as a team, then we're going to be all right and be in games. It's a really exciting finale for us and it feels like we've been on the journey."
He acknowledged the excitement and pressure surrounding the need for a win, but emphasised the importance of building on their recent efforts. "There's a lot of excitement and pressure on getting that win but, if we deliver that base and intent we've been trying to build, that's the start. So bring that and then a little bit extra, and we'll be in a good position."
Personal Challenges and Club Dynamics
Cracknell, who lost his place in the Wales back row after the France game, delivered a strong second-half performance in Dublin after replacing Aaron Wainwright just five minutes after the restart. The two players are set to become club colleagues as well as Wales team-mates next season, with Wainwright joining Cracknell at Gallagher Premiership club Leicester.
Reflecting on the increased competition, Cracknell noted, "It's good as more competition is going to make me better. Before last season it was (South Africa's) Jasper Wiese I was competing with. We had a lot of back rowers last year and you need competitive squads."
He also expressed enthusiasm for Wainwright's move, adding, "I'm excited for Waino to join and it's a big move for him because he's been at the Dragons a long time. I've been speaking to him where he's going to live and I'll help him get settled."
Learning from Setbacks
Cracknell shared his disappointment at being left out after the Scotland game, but highlighted the constructive feedback from coach Steve Tandy. "I was disappointed to be left out after the Scotland game, but you learn and Steve takes the time to explain decisions. I came away from that clear on what he was going for and the little bits that I could add to my game, because it always comes back to yourself and trying improve your own performance."
As Wales gear up for their critical match against Italy, the team's focus remains on translating their recent improvements into a much-needed victory, with Cracknell's insights underscoring a renewed sense of hope and determination within the squad.
