Jonathan Davies insists Wales players' focus is on Six Nations, not 'Project Reset'
Thursday 7 March 2019 20:39, UK
Jonathan Davies says Wales' Six Nations title-chasing players are focused on tackling Scotland at Murrayfield after a week dominated by Welsh rugby politics.
While unbeaten tournament leaders Wales target Six Nations title and Grand Slam success, off the field it is a story of domestic turmoil as debate rages about so-called 'Project Reset' and how Wales' professional regional game will look from next season.
Talks now appear to be deadlocked, a proposed Scarlets-Ospreys merger is off the table and considerable uncertainty remains.
"It's probably been a stressful start to the week but we've come in today with a focus of continuing our preparation ready for Scotland and to get on that plane and progress in the tournament like we have been," Wales and Scarlets centre Davies said.
Asked if he had ever known a week like it, Davies added: "There's always gossip and chat. It's Welsh rugby at the end of the day.
"I think players are looking forward to a big Test match on the weekend. That's what we love doing, that's what we are here to do. The most important thing for us is to focus on that."
Victory for Wales would leave them needing to beat Ireland in Cardiff on Saturday week to secure the Six Nations crown - they last won it in 2013 - and a first Grand Slam for seven years.
While they have toppled Scotland in 11 of the countries' last 12 meetings, they came badly unstuck at Murrayfield two years ago, losing 29-13 after leading at half-time.
"They will be looking to start well and get the crowd behind them and make sure they put us under pressure," Davies said.
"But for us it's making sure we build on the momentum we've got now, and as a unit we stay pretty tight.
"Two years ago we were well beaten there, so we can't take them lightly. It is going to be a very tough Test match.
"The squad is very tight. We've got momentum, and we are making sure we keep that. The squad is reacting well to the expectancy of winning games, and that's a good place to be."
