Recharged and refreshed from a long break between Rugby World Cup games, Wales’ forwards have never been more ready for battle as they gear up for their group match against Fiji, according to assistant coach Robin McBryde.
Wales have not been in action since edging Australia in the heavyweight Pool D clash on September 29 and bring a clean bill of health into Wednesday’s match at Oita Stadium as they look to sew up a quarter-final berth.
“We’re in a good place, obviously a 10-day break, so we’ve been able to get recharged,” forwards coach McBryde told reporters at the captain’s run on Tuesday.
“From a forwards point of view we’re in a better shape than we ever have been, really.
“Everyone’s fit and well, 18 players, ready to go. We’ve benefited from these days off and are ready for the final push in these big two games.”
Victory over Fiji would guarantee a quarter-final spot, while another win against emerging rugby nation Uruguay in their final pool game on October 13 would ensure they finish top of the group, securing what should be a kinder route through the quarters.
Warren Gatland’s side are not taking the Fijians lightly, however, and have made only two back row changes from the starting XV that fended off the Wallabies 29-25.
Loose forward Ross Moriarty has been promoted from the bench and will start at No.8, while James Davies makes his World Cup debut at openside flanker in place of the rested Justin Tipuric.
Wales beat Fiji 23-13 in a pool clash four years ago in the World Cup in England but their defence was often shredded by the fast Fijian backs.
Moriarty missed that pool game but was part of the Gloucester side that mounted a terrific comeback from 18-0 down to beat a touring Fiji team 31-29 in 2012.
“I was fortunate to play for Gloucester … against Fiji when I was about 18 which was a bit of an eye-opener,” the 25-year-old said.
“Being on this stage now is bigger. I’m just excited to get on the pitch and show everyone what I can do.”