Centre Hawkins determined to make World Cup

Wales centre Joe Hawkins has expressed his determination to make the 2024 World Cup in Australia, stating he is more motivated after missing the previous tournament in France. Hawkins, 24, was ineligible to play for Wales during the 2023 World Cup due to the Professional Rugby Board's (PRB) 25-cap rule, which bars players with fewer than 25 caps from representing the national team unless they are part of a Welsh club. Hawkins returned to the national side after signing with Scarlets in 2023.

Hawkins, who has played 13 internationals for Wales, acknowledges that it would have been nice to have a World Cup under his belt. However, he is now eager to contribute to a potential World Cup appearance in the next 12 months. Wales has scheduled at least 12 matches leading up to the World Cup, starting with the Nations Championship opener against Japan in Cardiff next Saturday.

The national team coach, Steve Tandy, has given Hawkins and his Scarlets partner Eddie James a significant role in the midfield. The pair have been the preferred starting options for Tandy since taking charge in September 2025, having been together for seven matches. Hawkins and James have developed a strong on-field relationship, and Hawkins believes their partnership will strengthen as they get more game time together.

Wales head coach Steve Tandy has been experimenting with various midfield combinations, often selecting different starting pairs in the 13 games since taking over in September 2025. Hawkins and James have emerged as the most prolific duo, forming part of the preferred option for the head coach.