By Peter Ryan – @PeterRyanSports
Prop is one of the most crucial positions on the field, and many great players occupy the role.
When thinking about the great props in today’s game, the likes of Andrew Porter, Thomas du Toit, and Ox Nche come to mind.
Over the years, many fantastic front-rowers have emerged from Wales, with Nicky Smith being a prime example.
The 30-year-old has produced numerous quality performances on the international stage. However, in recent years, he hasn’t been given the opportunity to make an impact for his country.
Smith is coming off a stellar season for Ospreys, and it will be exciting to see how his first season at Welford Road unfolds.
In his first few outings for Leicester Tigers, Smith looked impressive, and hopefully, his excellent form will lead to a Wales call-up.
The Career of Nicky Smith
Smith has achieved a tremendous amount throughout his career with club and country. Waunarlwydd RFC is where his rugby journey began, alongside the likes of Liam Williams.
The prop came through the Ospreys Academy and was involved in the Wales set-up from the under-18s onwards.
Smith spent 12 years with the Swansea-based club and was vital to the team, particularly last year, when Toby Booth’s side had a very successful campaign.
Now that he has crossed the River Severn, Smith will look to make his mark in a new league.
As mentioned earlier, Smith looked impressive during his first outings for the Tigers.
The prop was a new addition to an exciting outfit headed by Michael Cheika. A new environment is bound to help develop Smith’s game and expand his skillset.
It will be fascinating to see how Smith performs in the Gallagher Premiership, especially after an impressive showing against Northampton Saints.
If he continues to deliver strong performances on the pitch, hopefully, Gatland will call him up for the Autumn Internationals.
Smith and Wales
Smith has been around the Wales set-up throughout his career.
The 30-year-old has worn the Wales shirt 47 times and has been one of the better props for the national team over the past decade.
However, Gatland has left him out of the squad recently, with Smith’s last international appearance being at the 2023 World Cup.
At only 30, Smith still has a lot to offer Wales.
Gatland must take advantage of Smith now that he is a seasoned professional at the peak of his career, as he possesses the perfect blend of ability and experience.
Looking at the front-row options for Wales, there are many exciting athletes. The first name that comes to mind is Archie Griffin, who is coming off an impressive summer tour Down Under and looks like a promising star for Wales in the future.
Corey Domachowski has established himself as a top prop in the country with solid performances for both club and country.
Dillon Lewis has been making waves since joining Harlequins and learning under Adam Jones.
There are many powerful props for Wales to choose from, but Smith has proven he can consistently play top-class rugby.
Smith’s Potential Impact on the Welsh National Rugby Team
Smith is a phenomenal talent and would make a significant difference to any team he plays for. What makes him stand out the most is his scrummaging ability.
Come scrum time, there are few better, which is something Wales desperately needs. He also brings invaluable experience to what could be a young Wales team.
Smith is a great player who could contribute a lot to Wales. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the prop.
READ MORE: A tribute to Jonathan Davies – One of Wales’s best ever
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