Joe Hawkins, the 23-year-old Scarlets centre, delivers standout performances like his recent showing at Principality Stadium, where he prepares to challenge a formidable Scottish Lions trio.
Hawkins’ Journey Back to Wales
Hawkins earned his eighth cap during Wales’ loss to France in Cardiff, marking his first Six Nations appearance since the 2023 victory over Italy in Rome—Wales’ last championship win. After transferring from Ospreys to Exeter at the end of that season, he encountered hurdles due to the Welsh Rugby Union’s selection policy for capped players.
“A major reason for my return to Wales was to join the national squad and compete in top events like this,” Hawkins explains. He adds, “No international tournament rivals the Six Nations. It’s thrilling to be back in the mix.”
Hawkins rejoined Scarlets last year, starting against New Zealand and South Africa during the autumn series. Selected ahead of Cardiff’s Ben Thomas for the France match, he partnered fly-half Dan Edwards and outside centre Eddie James at international level for the first time. This group holds 23 caps combined.
Showdown with Scotland’s Stars
Next, they face Scotland’s established midfield of Finn Russell, Sione Tuipulotu, and Huw Jones. These players, who toured Australia with the British and Irish Lions last summer—including starting together in the first Test—boast 186 caps for Scotland.
France exploited Wales with dynamic ball-carrying, and Scotland presents another stern defensive test. “Their centre pairing is well-settled, making this an ideal challenge,” Hawkins notes. “Tuipulotu carries powerfully with clever skills, while Huw Jones brings speed and sharp lines—they mesh perfectly.”
If Hawkins and James maintain their spots over Ben Thomas and returning Ospreys centre Owen Watkin, it could feature a Scarlets duo. At 23 and 6ft 3ins, James impressed against France despite an off-season injury. “Since recovering with Scarlets, he’s been dominant in carries and tackles,” Hawkins says, recalling their Wales Under-20s partnership. “He’s a powerhouse, and we need to feed him the ball often.”
Defensive Fixes and Attacking Edge
Wales conceded 15 tries and 102 points in the opening two rounds, highlighting defensive needs. Yet Hawkins’ playmaking—evident from his early-season fly-half role with Scarlets—fuels attacking threats.
“We aim to inspire the nation with our play,” he states. “Top teams stick to their style, like France, who excel by doubling down. After tough results, we stay committed to what works for our future and keep pushing forward.”
