Harlequins back-rower Seb Driscoll has emerged as a potential new option for Wales after a standout performance in his side's 33-15 victory over Saracens at the Twickenham Stoop on Sunday. The 23-year-old former Wales U20s player started at openside flanker in place of Will Evans and impressed with powerful ball-carrying, consistently making metres after contact while dominating physically throughout the contest.
Try and Praise from Pundits
Driscoll capped his performance with a try, running on to an offload from England prop Finn Baxter before powering through Wales star Tomos Williams to cross the line. His display caught the eye of Ireland legend Brian O'Driscoll, who was among those providing punditry for TNT Sports.
Broadcaster's lead commentator Nick Mullins said: "I like the look of Seb Driscoll. He's only 23 but he's doing a job, isn't he, along with Lucas Schmidt, who is even younger." Former England prop David Flatman also gave his approval, saying: "He's aggressive isn't he. Good to watch."
Wales Back-Row Depth
O'Driscoll described Driscoll's performance as "phenomenal", noting: "He's keeping him (Evans) out who's been very effective for a number of years. He's good on the floor and has always been very high on jackling stats but certainly Seb Driscoll coming in has done a phenomenal job. He's a different sort of player. He's more of an abrasive ball carrier."
Wales are well stocked in the back-row department, with the likes of Jac Morgan, Alex Mann, Kane James, Tommy Reffell, James Botham and Josh Macleod all capable of operating at openside flanker. However, Driscoll offers a powerful ball-carrying option and, if he can establish himself in the Harlequins back row and consistently reproduce his level of performance against Saracens, he could put himself firmly in contention for international honours.
Despite representing Wales at U20 level, Driscoll also qualifies to play for England, potentially setting up a tug-of-war between the two nations for his services over the coming years.
