Six Nations: Tomas Francis Eager to Support Wales
Former Exeter prop Tomas Francis is returning to the English Premiership with Sale, and at 33, he's determined to make a difference for his club and country. Francis expresses his passion, stating, 'If I didn't think I could, I wouldn't be here. If I didn't have that fire, I wouldn't be here.'
He's ready to face the challenge, even with the nerves that come with game day. Francis mentions, 'The day those game-day nerves go, then it's time to walk away. I definitely had them last week, and I hope to feel them again this week against France.'
This match holds special significance for Francis, as his two young daughters will be in the audience in Cardiff. He shares, 'My girls are flying over tomorrow for their first game. It's why I play, it's about family, and being able to come back for them to watch is truly amazing.'
Francis acknowledges the difficulty France will pose, emphasizing the importance of a strong start for Wales. He says, 'We just need to attack from the first whistle. The French team can score from anywhere.'
He recalls the Irish match, where France's performance was impressive despite minimal mistakes. Francis notes, 'That could happen in the first minute, and we can't feel sorry for ourselves. It's about our next actions as a team and what I can do to support my teammates.'
Ticket sales for the upcoming match at the Principality have been slower compared to previous years, while Welsh regions struggle to attract large crowds regularly. This contrasts with French rugby, where Francis highlights the success of Provence, a second-tier French side, with 'two-and-a-half years of sell-outs.'
He explains the French approach, stating, 'It's more of an entertainment in France. They serve oysters on the side of the pitch, they have champagne. There's a party in the bodega after the rugby matches.'
Francis admires the French domestic league model and hopes Wales can emulate it. However, Wales must first improve its performance, as it struggled against England at the Allianz Stadium. Francis concludes, 'We want to put on a show that we're proud of, and so are our families and the Welsh public. Everyone is working hard, and we hope the results will come.'
