Wales head coach Warren Gatland reckons the heat of NatWest 6 Nations battle has been vital in Rhys Patchell’s development.
Saturday’s clash with Argentina will mark the fly-half’s first start for his country since the 12-6 defeat to England in February.
The 25-year-old was given a stern examination of skills in what was just his fourth international appearance, in front of a sold-out Twickenham crowd.
Gatland felt Patchell used the experience to his advantage and has already become a better player as a result. “It was a step up in intensity and something he hadn’t experienced before,” said Gatland.
“We’ve had a lot of players go through that in their first international cap or against a major nation– when the intensity or the tempo of the game went up, they’ve found it tough.
“We made a change in that game and he definitely learnt from that.”
The stand-off built on a solid NatWest 6 Nations display against Scotland with some scintillating form for club side Scarlets.
Patchell gave particular notice of his progress when he guided the Welsh province to victory in the Guinness Pro14 semi-final, his superb display helping them beat Glasgow Warriors 28-13.
Gatland – who guided his side to second place in the 2018 NatWest 6 Nations – saw the player heed his advice after the conclusion of Rugby’s Greatest Championship.
“I think he’s going to be a better player for it,” said Gatland.
“He started the NatWest 6 Six Nations well and the conversation with him was to get back on the horse and I think he’s learnt from that experience.
“We saw Rhys play well at the end of the season and he gets a chance this weekend.”
