In a thrilling clash at the Stade de Marseille, Wales’ star fly-half Dan Biggar is gearing up for what could be his last international match, as he plans to retire from Test rugby after the 2023 Rugby World Cup. As he prepares to face Argentina in the quarter-finals, Biggar is determined not to let his final curtain call end in disappointment.
With 621 points to his name, Biggar stands as Wales’ fourth-highest scorer in Test rugby. He has been a key figure in Wales’ journey in the World Cup, and now, on the brink of his 34th birthday, he’s looking to celebrate it in style. For him, the worst-case scenario would be saying goodbye on a losing note in the quarter-finals.
In a recent interview, Biggar expressed his determination: “I don’t want my last day as a Wales player to be losing a World Cup quarter-final.” The pressure on players like him, who are ending their international careers after this World Cup, is substantial, but it serves as a profound motivation.
The Welsh fly-half highlighted the team’s commitment, saying, “We’ve been doing everything we can as a team and individuals to make sure we go out on a high rather than a disappointing end.” This World Cup represents a special opportunity for the squad, and they’re not ready to head back home just yet. Biggar humorously remarked, “I really want another two weeks with this group.”
Interestingly, Dan Biggar’s home in Toulon happens to be just 29 miles away from where Wales is based during this crucial period. The close proximity has its downsides, with Biggar quipping about having a “house full” of 13 guests as fans flock to the south of France to support the team.
Biggar’s World Cup journey hit a moment of uncertainty when he suffered a pectoral injury during the match against Australia. He admitted, “At first I thought it was going to be very difficult to get back, but I’ve managed to heal up OK, and I’m fine.” His dedication to getting back on the field is evident, as he spent the last two and a half weeks with physiotherapists to ensure he didn’t miss out on this crucial moment.
The return of ‘Bullseye,’ as he’s affectionately known by his teammates, couldn’t have come at a better time for Wales, especially with fellow fly-half Gareth Anscombe still sidelined. Dan Biggar’s experience, having participated in three World Cups, adds a level of composure and expertise to the team.
Biggar acknowledged the unique character of this Welsh squad, saying, “This group is different to previous campaigns.” Unlike previous World Cups, where the core team remained relatively unchanged for an extended period, this group features a mix of ages but has grown in confidence and belief as they spent more time together. They are now hitting their stride at just the right moment.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. Wales is on the cusp of climbing to fifth place in the world rankings, but Argentina, their quarter-final opponents, consider them favorites. Biggar reminded everyone, “We have to make sure we manage expectations. A lot of people in Wales think we’ve just got to turn up tomorrow to get the job done.” He emphasized the team’s preparedness for a tough match against Argentina, who he believes have more to offer than what they’ve shown in the pool stages.
As the rugby world eagerly awaits this thrilling showdown, Dan Biggar and his teammates are focused on making his farewell tour a memorable one, hoping to extend their World Cup journey beyond the quarter-finals and possibly claim the ultimate prize. The stakes are high, the pressure is on, and Biggar is ready to give it his all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rugby World Cup 2023
Q: Is this Dan Biggar’s last international rugby match?
A: Yes, Dan Biggar plans to retire from Test rugby after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, making this tournament his international farewell.
Q: What is the significance of Dan Biggar’s 34th birthday?
A: Dan Biggar hopes to celebrate his 34th birthday by advancing to the World Cup semi-final with his Wales team, rather than heading home after a quarter-final defeat.
Q: How did Dan Biggar recover from his injury to participate in the World Cup?
A: Despite suffering a pectoral injury against Australia, Dan Biggar diligently worked with physiotherapists for two and a half weeks to ensure his return to the World Cup.
Q: Why is managing expectations important for Wales in the upcoming match?
A: It’s crucial to manage expectations as Wales faces Argentina, as the latter considers Wales the favorites, and underestimating their opponents could prove costly.
Q: What sets the current Welsh squad apart from previous campaigns?
A: The current Welsh squad features a mix of ages but has gained confidence and belief through more time together, making it distinct from previous World Cup teams.
More about Rugby World Cup 2023
- Rugby World Cup 2023 Official Website
- BBC Sport – Rugby World Cup 2023
- Dan Biggar’s Profile on Wales Rugby Union
- Argentina National Rugby Union Team
- Wales National Rugby Union Team
- Toulon, France – Travel Guide
- Gareth Anscombe’s Profile on Wales Rugby Union
- World Rugby Rankings
3 comments
can’t wait 4 this game!!! Biggar’s last hoorah, huge stakes. go wales!
interesting interview, biggar’s bday wish. wales gotta perform!
dan’s injuries, big deal. cmon wales, don’t underestimate argentina.