Edwards was part of the Lions party edged out 2-1 by the Boks five years ago so he knows first hand just how good that crop of South Africans really was but he is convinced that the men who lie in wait for Wales in Durban and Nelspruit are just as tough, tenacious and technically gifted.
“They have an outstanding squad which I think is the best team they’ve had since the 2007 World Cup and the 2009 side who played the Lions,” said Edwards.
“We remember the 2009 Lions Tests, and also the first Test in 2008 when Wales went over. They were the best team in the world at that time, and this is the best team they’ve had since then.
“It’s a mammoth task, probably the toughest place to play rugby in the world physically. I’m confident that we’ll be a minimum of competitive – if we win, we’ll make history.”
Wales clearly face a tough task if they are to record a first Test victory on South African soil but one member of the touring squad has already overcome even greater adversity so far this season: Matthew Rees battled testicular cancer to win a Wales recall and Edwards admits the hooker’s story is an inspirational one for everyone involved in Warren Gatland’s squad.
“It’s absolutely magnificent that a guy can show such fortitude – that’s the story of the squad. He’s a great example to us all,” added Edwards.
“We did fitness tests the other week and he was nearly at the front of the front rowers. And you just think this guy was having chemotherapy a number of weeks ago. It’s just an absolutely incredible story and it almost brings a tear to your eye.”
