Prop Nicky Smith insists the Wales squad will not “bury heads in the sand” as speculation continues over the possible loss of a professional region.
Wales open their autumn international campaign this Sunday against Argentina at the Principality Stadium, but the build‑up has been overshadowed by the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU)’s controversial proposal to reduce the number of professional teams from four to three. Both the Ospreys and Scarlets are thought to be most at risk under the plan.
“Of course there is a lot of noise but the main thing is that the boys just want to play for Wales,” said Smith, the former Ospreys prop who now plays for Leicester Tigers.
“Whether on the pitch or in training, they just want to put their best foot forward.
There is no point burying our heads in the sand. It’s good that we talk about it off the pitch and then when we are on it we are focused and have got everything off our chests.”
The fixture marks the beginning of Steve Tandy’s tenure as Wales head coach, with further Tests against Japan, New Zealand and South Africa to follow.
While preparations continue for the Pumas clash, meetings are taking place between the WRU and the country’s four regions – Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets – to discuss the restructuring plans, which could see one team scrapped by 2027.
The uncertainty has led to renewed interest from overseas clubs in several key Welsh players, including captain Jac Morgan, Josh Adams and Aaron Wainwright, as their current deals near expiry.
Smith, whose own contract with Leicester ends this season, admits he is watching developments from a distance but understands the strain it places on players.
“It’s nothing new because when I was at the Ospreys I was out of contract when a merger was coming around the corner,” he said.
“It’s a bit easier for me now that I am out of the picture, but when I was in it things were distracting and stressful.”
The 31‑year‑old from Swansea believes openness within the squad is crucial to maintaining focus during uncertain times.
“If we want to get something off our chests – and that’s not just what is going on now in Welsh rugby, it’s anything – then we do,” he added.
“That’s what Steve wants because with a clear mind you can give your best for the team.”
Wales braced for Pumas’ power
Smith was the starting loose‑head when Wales ended their 18‑Test losing run with a victory over Japan in Kobe earlier this year, and he is in strong contention to wear the number one jersey again this weekend.
Competition for places, however, is fierce. Alongside Smith and Gareth Thomas, Cardiff’s in‑form uncapped prop Danny Southworth and Rhys Carre of Saracens have both impressed in training.
Tandy’s pack will need to be at their physical best against an Argentina side renowned for their power up front but also capable of playing a fluid, expansive game.
“They have always had a big pack but now we have seen how expansive they can be,” said Smith.
“Their backline is incredible and the forwards are big and physical but can chuck the ball around as well.
They will always pride themselves on physicality but there is more to them than that and we have to be ready for anything.”
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