| Venue: Stade Chaban-Delmas, Bordeaux Date: Sunday, 16 February Time:15:15 GMT |
| Coverage:Live commentary by BBC Radio Wales, plus match report on the BBC Sport site and app. |
Jonathan Davies is concerned that Wales will suffer if the Principality Stadium is empty for their Six Nations matches.
Covid restrictions in Wales restrict elite sport to the country. This has been true since Boxing Day.
Wales begin defense of their Six Nations title, in Ireland, on Saturday, 5 Feb. Their first home match against Scotland will be a week later.
Davies stated, “It is absolutely horrible when you play infront of no crowds.”
“It's not the same after last year's Six Nations without crowds.
“Seeing other countries having crowds, it's going to be a disadvantage for you if your home games are played in empty stadiums.”
“I don’t need to say too many things in case I get into trouble.”
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), is currently considering a change in its current restrictions. playing home Six Nations games in England.
WRU prefers to play Wales' home fixtures in front of capacity crowds at the Principality Stadium. However, restrictions will need to be eased by the Welsh government.
While ministers will be reviewing restrictions next week, First Minister Mark Drakeford said that they would consider this option. “big if”If the situation allows it.
He has refused to allow sports events to be open for business. following a similar announcement in Scotland.
England has no restrictions on crowd size, but France and Ireland allow a maximum of 5,000 spectators to watch matches.
All Six Nations matches were held behind closed doors in 2017, but Wales was able to host large crowds at their four autumn Tests, which took place in October and November 2021.
Centre Davies shared that he was fortunate enough to be able to play for such an extended period of time, and that playing in front a crowd is where you get the excitement and buzz.
“I'm not going into any more detail, as much as I would like to. The boys enjoy playing in front crowds, and the boys desire crowds.
“Watch this space”
Wales will name their Six Nations squad next week. Davies hopes to be included, having been in and out the team for the past few months.
The 33-year-old, who is a highly skilled player, has been considered one of the most important centres in the world during a long career that has included two Grand Slams and appearances on two British Lions tours.
Davies is with the Scarlets in preparation for Bordeaux's Top14 leaders Bordeaux in Sunday's Champions Cup. He is focusing on this weekend’s trip to France but still hopes to add to his 93 Wales caps.
He said, “I just want the opportunity to play for my country as much as possible.”
“I don't intend to place flags in the ground to say “This is where I want”
“Every time you get the chance wear a Welsh shirt, you are one of the fortunate few.
“I cherish every chance I have to do it. My body is feeling great at the moment.
“I feel like I have a lot of miles left and I will do my best to ensure that my form is worthy of being chosen.
“Watch this space for the next few years. I love playing for my nation and will keep it going for as long time as possible.
