The Six Nations 2026 is shaping up to be a tournament of high stakes and even higher expectations, and one matchup in particular is already sparking excitement and debate: Wales’ rising star, Hawkins, is gearing up to face Scotland’s formidable Lions trio. But here’s where it gets controversial—can a relatively inexperienced Welsh backline truly challenge the battle-hardened Scots? Let’s dive in.
Hawkins, who rejoined the Scarlets last year, has quickly become a key figure for Wales, starting against rugby powerhouses like New Zealand and South Africa in the autumn internationals. His recent selection over Cardiff’s Ben Thomas against France highlights his growing influence. Partnered with fly-half Dan Edwards and outside centre Eddie James—a trio with just 23 caps between them—they now face a Scotland midfield that’s anything but forgiving.
Scotland’s Finn Russell, Sione Tuipulotu, and Huw Jones are no strangers to high-pressure games. With a combined 186 international caps and a Lions tour to Australia under their belts, they’re a well-oiled machine. And this is the part most people miss: while Wales struggles defensively—conceding 15 tries and 102 points in the first two rounds—Scotland’s midfield isn’t just about brute force. Tuipulotu’s power is undeniable, but his subtle skills often fly under the radar. Huw Jones, meanwhile, brings speed and clever running lines, creating a partnership that’s as dynamic as it is dangerous.
Hawkins isn’t intimidated, though. ‘They’ve got a settled centre partnership, so whoever gets the chance, this is a good test,’ he said. But the real intrigue lies in Wales’ own midfield. If Hawkins and James hold off the challenge from Thomas and the returning Owen Watkin, we could see a Scarlets duo squaring off against Glasgow’s best. James, standing at 6ft 3ins, showed glimpses of his potential against France, and Hawkins is quick to praise his physicality and ball-carrying prowess. ‘When you’ve got someone like that, you just want to get them on the ball as much as possible,’ he added.
Here’s the bold question: Can Wales’ attacking flair, led by Hawkins’ playmaking abilities, outweigh their defensive vulnerabilities? Hawkins believes so. ‘We talk a lot about being a team that can excite the nation,’ he said. Drawing parallels with France—a team that sticks to its style no matter what—he argues that now isn’t the time for Wales to abandon their game plan. ‘After a couple of disappointing results, it’s not the time to go away from what’s working, or going to work, for us moving forward. We just need to keep banging the drum,’ he emphasized.
As the tournament heats up, this midfield battle could be a defining moment. Will Scotland’s experience and cohesion prevail, or will Wales’ youthful energy and ambition steal the show? What do you think? Is Hawkins right to double down on their style, or should Wales rethink their approach? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
