Alun Wyn Jones has warned Wales’ Guinness Six Nations rivals that fly-half Dan Biggar will be more dangerous than ever as they prepare to defend their Championship title.
Biggar found often himself behind Gareth Anscombe in the pecking order during last year’s Grand Slam triumph, with his only start coming against Italy in the second round.
But the 30-year-old came off the bench in the rest of Wales’ games and made many telling contributions, most notably in the final 20 minutes of the win over England.
And having also played a key role in Wales’ run to the World Cup semi-finals, Jones believes Biggar continues to go from strength to strength thanks to his experience with Northampton Saints.
“The air he has got, the way he is carrying himself, you can see he’s someone who’s playing away from Wales and playing in a different group,” said Jones.
“That experience he has had at Northampton, the players around him, is obviously invaluable to him, as he is going to be invaluable to the squad moving forward.”
Jones was not the only one singing Biggar’s praises, with new Wales head coach Wayne Pivac also impressed by what he’s seen from the 79-cap international at Saints.
“I think marrying up with Chris Boyd has been fantastic for his game,” said Pivac.
“The way Northampton want to play and the way he is playing, I think he’s adding another dimension to his game, which is fantastic for us.
“Dan is a quality player. He brings all that experience. You saw what he did at the World Cup. I think it’s going to extend his career with what he is doing at Northampton, so it’s a positive for him.”
Wales begin the defence of their Guinness Six Nations title by welcoming Italy to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday for the Championship curtain-raiser.
