Johnny Williams made a bold decision that could have cost him everything—he chose to stay with the Scarlets, not just for the team, but to chase a dream that seemed increasingly out of reach: earning more caps for Wales. But here's where it gets controversial: was this a calculated risk or a leap of faith? Let’s dive in.
Williams, the 28-year-old centre, found himself on the fringes of the international scene, left out in the cold under former coach Warren Gatland. Despite this, he held on to his childhood dream of representing Wales on the grand stage. His perseverance paid off this summer when he was recalled for the tour to Japan, helping Wales snap an 18-match losing streak. Under interim coach Matt Sherratt, now the full-time attack coach, Williams earned his eighth and ninth caps, proving his worth once again.
And this is the part most people miss: Williams’ decision to stay wasn’t just about loyalty to the Scarlets. It was a strategic move fueled by his burning desire to play Test rugby. Even when he fell down the pecking order, he clung to his 'why'—a memory from age six, standing with his dad at the Principality Stadium, dreaming of playing in front of 74,000 fans. 'I wanted to give it one more shot,' he said. 'Luckily, I did.'
But the road ahead isn’t easy. At the Scarlets, Williams faces fierce competition from new signings like Joe Hawkins, Joe Roberts, and Macs Page. With Eddie James sidelined due to injury, the midfield battle is amplified at the international level, where Gloucester’s Max Llewellyn, Saracens’ Nick Tompkins, and Ospreys’ Kieran Williams are also in the mix. 'No spots are guaranteed,' Williams admits. 'You always have to be fit, ready, and fighting for a place.'
Here’s the controversial question: Did Williams’ decision to stay with the Scarlets ultimately pay off, or would he have had more opportunities elsewhere? Let’s not forget, he was frozen out during the end of Gatland’s era, despite playing in the World Cup and for the Barbarians. Williams took feedback, worked on his game, and stayed true to himself, but was this enough?
This Friday, Williams gets another chance to prove himself when the Scarlets face the unbeaten Stormers in Llanelli. After a rocky start to the URC season, including a loss to Munster and a postponed match against Connacht, the team heads to South Africa to take on the Lions and Sharks. For Williams, it’s not just about winning—it’s about staking his claim for Wales once again.
So, what do you think? Was Johnny Williams’ decision to stay with the Scarlets a masterstroke or a missed opportunity? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
