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Patchell ready to thrill against world’s best

Patchell ready to thrill against world’s best

Rhys Patchell says Wales have been given a license to thrill against the world’s best in the upcoming 2017 Under Armour Series.

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The Scarlets playmaker is out to make his mark against Australia, Georgia, New Zealand and New South Africa this Autumn after orchestrating his region’s thrilling run to the PRO12 title last season. 

Wayne Pivac’s men turned on the attacking style to claim the trophy at the Aviva Stadium, and Patchell is relishing the chance to impress in-front of sold-out crowds at the Principality Stadium.

“Warren has talked to us as a squad about getting our heads up and having a scan and, if it’s on, then have a crack,” he said. “If we pass poorly then, that’s on us. But if it’s on, it’s on. That’s something everyone has to buy into.

“And the boys seem excited about the way we are going to play, excited about shifting the ball about and having a crack at the opposition. I enjoy that because it means we get to attack more and especially the way we play at the Scarlets.

“I think the way the game has gone means there’s a lot more attacking opportunities. The ball is easier to hold on to now with the way the laws have gone.”

Patchell is one of four outside-halves selected in Warren Gatland’s 36 man Wales squad, but a change in attacking strategy could see him pushed to inside centre. And the 24-year-old says he would jump at the opportunity to start in the number 12 shirt.

He said: “We have got a lot of good ball players in and around those positions and I am sure anybody who is picked will be thrilled to be asked to do a job, whatever jersey that job may entail.

“I assume I have been picked as a 10 on the basis that’s all I’ve played since the start of last season. But if Warren Gatland or Rob Howley say would you be willing to have a crack at playing 12 for us, then that’s not something you turn down.”

Under Armour Series 2017 – BUY TICKETS HERE

WALES v AUSTRALIA – Saturday, 11 November 2017 (17:15)

WALES v GEORGIA – Saturday, 18 November 2017 (14:30)

WALES v NEW ZEALAND – Saturday, 25 November 2017 (17:15) SOLD OUT

WALES v SOUTH AFRICA – Saturday, 2 December 2017 (14:30)

Official Hospitality Packages are available from 02920 822 413 or visit www.wru.wales/hospitality and official travel packages can be purchased from the WRU’s official travel supplier, Gullivers Sports Travel by visiting www.gulliverstravel.co.uk

The WRU’s official resale marketplace, which gives clubs the opportunity to re-sell a limited selection of their allocated tickets to the general public, can also be found at www.seatwave.com/wru

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