Arabic version: هوكينز يستهدف مكاناً مع ويلز في كأس العالم

According to BBC News, Wales centre Joe Hawkins says missing the 2023 World Cup has strengthened his determination to reach next year’s tournament in Australia.

Hawkins was unable to play for Wales after moving from Ospreys to Exeter in 2023. Welsh rugby’s Professional Rugby Board ruled that players with fewer than 25 caps could not be selected while playing outside Wales. He has since returned to the national set-up after joining Scarlets.

The 24-year-old, who has played 13 internationals, said he had no regrets about his Exeter spell. “It would have been nice to have a World Cup under my belt already, but that just makes me even more excited for potentially what’s ahead over the next year,” Hawkins said.

Wales have at least 12 matches before the World Cup, beginning with the Nations Championship opener against Japan in Cardiff next Saturday. Hawkins said the prospect of the tournament raises competition for places, but stressed that players must focus on immediate performances.

Hawkins and Scarlets colleague Eddie James have become Wales’ most-used centre combination over the past 12 months. Head coach Steve Tandy has used five starting partnerships in 13 games since taking charge in September 2025, with Hawkins and James starting together seven times, including an uncapped victory over Barbarians.

Hawkins said he enjoys the creative demands of inside centre and believes his experience at outside-half has helped his communication. While he has also played at 10 for Scarlets, he sees his future in the Wales midfield at 12.