Edwards warns against complacency

Four victories from Wales’s five pool matches against Ireland, Italy, Poland, Ukraine and Belgium would guarantee a final spot in Dubai next March.

And Llanelli Scarlets flanker Edwards believes Wales can build on their successes in Denmark and Georgia this year.

Edwards, 24, leads Wales out for the Hannover Sevens which kicks off in Germany on Saturday, and said: “There is a massive incentive for the players. We know we’ve got a place at the World Cup finals at stake and won’t take anybody lightly this weekend.

“It does not matter whether it’s the 15-man or Sevens game, it’s still a chance to represent your country in a World Cup.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I do not want to let it slip through our fingers.”

Coach Gareth Baber has lost Sale Sharks new-boy Nick MacLeod for the trip to Germany after the former Cardiff Blues fly-half failed to recover from a knee injury.

But Edwards insists the squad are ready to rise to the challenge and seal their place against the world’s best.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time leading the Sevens and there have been several highs and lows this season,” he said.

“Reaching the semi-finals at Twickenham and the win over Samoa were great achievements. But it is a rollercoaster ride and a two-day tournament is difficult, both mentally and physically tiring but fun.

“Sevens rugby builds up your confidence and allows you to mature as a rugby player. That’s the whole purpose of this style of rugby.

“But the opportunity of playing in a World Cup has driven us on. The game is slightly different but not as big a gap as many people think. Everyone thinks Sevens rugby is an open-spaced game but every team has outstanding defences now.

“It’s a huge part of the game and little errors or mistakes can be the difference between winning and losing.”