Six Nations: What can fans expect from Wales’ Steve Tandy?

More importantly, given the well-documented uncertainty off the field, men’s management was a big feature of the beginning of the Tandy era.

The national coaches make frequent visits to all four regions and have made sure to contact those who narrowly missed out on selection.

Those who have made the cut talk a lot about “connection.”

“I’ve never really felt it as much as I’ve felt this campaign, how strong the boys are, how connected they are,” said Josh McLeod, who missed the fall series with injury.

“We’re man-to-man, we’re willing to stand up for each other and fight. It’s down to Steve and his coaching team, the values ​​they set – care and communication are the core values ​​- and the boys have really bought into that.”

Former Wales hooker Scott Baldwin, who played under Tandy at Ospreys, believes the close bond gives hope of progress.

“Steve will know how to get the best out of this group,” he told the Scrum V podcast.

“It will make these players feel like a million dollars going into the game and believing they can win.

“If Wales can land the first blow, the pressure will be on England. No one expects Wales to win.”