Williams points to ‘self-belief’ as the key to Six Nations success

Shane Williams has urged Wales’ current crop of players to believe in themselves if they want to win this year’s Six Nations tournament.

Williams understands more than most how to get the job done, having played an integral role in Wales’ Grand Slam triumphs in 2005 and 2008.

He was selected in three World Cup squads, ended his international career as his country’s record try scorer and was deservedly inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.

However, the current crop of players have a long way to go if they want to match Williams’ achievements, with the Grand Slam already out of reach in this year’s tournament.

Speaking to sports betting firm Betway, the former Wales star says ‘self-belief’ amongst the players makes a massive difference in the Six Nations.

“I played in Wales teams that probably hadn't given themselves enough credit, especially the players,” he said.

“We had some great players, but collectively at times we let ourselves down. Physically and skilfully, we were always up there with the best, it was just sometimes we didn't quite believe in ourselves.

“And I think that was the difference in those Grand Slams. We backed ourselves, we backed our physicality, we were mentally tough, and we had a strong enough squad to get us through the tournament unscathed, and that was the difference.”

Wales’ overall record in the Six Nations is impressive, with the team claiming the Grand Slam on four previous occasions – more than any other nation.

They have lifted the Six Nations title six times, with only England (seven) ahead of them in the all-time list.

Having entered this year’s tournament as defending champions, hopes were high that Wales could mount a serious bid to go back-to-back.

Only five teams have achieved that feat – England (2001 & 2017), France (2007), Wales (2013) and Ireland (2015).

The competition has been particularly tight in recent years, with no champion able to defend their title over the last four years.

Williams acknowledges that winning the Grand Slam is no easy task and believes fans should cut the current Wales team some slack given the strength of the competition.

“As people who watch the Six Nations know well, it's such a short turnaround,” he added. “It’s only five games, you’re only playing five different teams. Surely it’s not difficult to win every game? I can assure you it is.

“You've really got to be on top of your game for the full tournament. The level of competition is so tight. One mistake in any international match and you lose the match, and then obviously your chance at a Grand Slam is over.

“You’re playing against some of the best teams in the world - some of the best players in the world.

“You’ve got to have a bit of luck along the way - you’ve got to make sure you don't get any injuries, your discipline has to be on point.

“If you switch off or your form dips at all, you get found out very, very quickly.”

Wales are back in action on Saturday when they go head-to-head with England at Twickenham, and fans can find rugby live streams here.