Josh Hathaway is opening up about his journey from representing both England and Wales at the Under-20 Six Nations to ultimately committing to Wales as he prepares for his first senior Championship.
With his roots in Aberystwyth, a small town with a population that barely registers in the rugby world, Hathaway’s decision to choose Wales was never really in doubt.
He recalls, “It was always going to be Wales.”
Growing Up in Aberystwyth: A Simple Life With One Obvious Choice
Growing up in a remote town like Aberystwyth, Hathaway admits that he didn’t quite understand that there was a world outside his little corner of Wales.
“I lived in the middle of nowhere really,” he says. Shopping centers were hours away, and rugby was the only world he truly knew.
His brief stint with the England Under-20s certainly shaped his career, and Hathaway remains grateful for that experience, especially for the role Alan Dickens, his head coach, played in his development.
“I’ll always be very grateful to England,” Hathaway reflects. “It’s been a part of my journey.”
Yet, despite this connection to England, the allure of his home country was undeniable.
Hathaway is quick to express his gratitude to Warren Gatland and Rob Howley for giving him the opportunity to represent Wales at the highest level.
“I can’t thank them enough,” he says with sincerity.
A Rapid Rise With Wales: From Gloucester to International Debut
After a standout season with Gloucester, Hathaway’s international future was uncertain.
But Wales head coach Warren Gatland wasted no time calling him up, offering him his Test debut against Australia in July.
This marked the beginning of Hathaway’s senior international career, and a second cap followed against South Africa just a few months later.
Hathaway is clearly relishing his time with Wales, a team full of world-class players.
“I’ve always had to push myself more in order to learn more,” Hathaway shares.
“The chance to play international rugby in Australia really topped it off.”
The Reality of International Rugby: Learning and Evolving
There’s no denying the differences between club rugby and international competition.
Hathaway has quickly learned the demands of the senior game, where the speed, intensity, and physicality are on another level.
“You don’t really see it until you’re in it,” he admits.
But it’s clear that Hathaway is adapting quickly, and he credits his coaches for challenging him to elevate his game.
The ultimate test came during his debut in Australia, which Hathaway describes as “surreal.”
He can barely remember the 80 minutes of that game, as it was such a blur of excitement and nerves.
One of the most memorable moments of his debut was singing the national anthem next to his childhood hero, Liam Williams.
Hathaway’s connection with Williams goes back more than a decade, when Williams was just beginning his breakthrough season with the Scarlets.
Hathaway fondly recalls a photo taken with Williams when he was just a 10-year-old boy.
To now stand side-by-side with him on the international stage was an emotional milestone.
“It was nuts,” Hathaway says, still in awe.
Developing at Gloucester: A New Approach Under Skivington
Hathaway is part of a strong Welsh contingent at Gloucester, a club currently thriving under the leadership of director of rugby George Skivington.
After a disappointing previous season, Skivington revamped the team’s approach, introducing a more attacking style of play that has reaped rewards.
Gloucester has been dynamic this season, earning bonus points for tries in seven of their matches.
Hathaway, along with his teammates, is relishing the freedom this new style brings.
“We’re running the ball a lot more now with Gloucester, and it’s bringing out the personalities of the boys on and off the pitch,” Hathaway explains.
The team has found itself sitting comfortably in the Premiership standings, and Hathaway is aiming high.
“We’ll 100% be looking for a top-four spot, maybe even higher,” he says confidently.
“We have depth to our squad, and the belief around the club is huge.”
Hathaway’s performance has been key to the team’s success, and he’s ready to prove himself at both the club and international level.
Looking Ahead: The Six Nations and Personal Growth
As Hathaway prepares for the Six Nations, he’s focused on continuing his personal development.
“The biggest thing for me at my age right now is to get as much experience and learning as I can each week,” he says.
Wales will face France in their opening match of the tournament, and Hathaway is hoping to continue his progression with a third cap.
His versatility is a strength, as he can play full-back and wing, giving him valuable options for matchday selection.
Though Hathaway was disappointed to see teammates Gareth Anscombe and Max Llewellyn miss out on the squad, he’s determined to make the most of his opportunity.
“We have a little Welsh bond here,” he says of his time at Gloucester.
“With Wales, we believe in the side we have, and we can push ourselves to the max.”
The Six Nations, as Hathaway points out, is a tournament every young rugby player dreams of playing in.
His excitement is palpable as he looks ahead to the challenge, remembering a key moment from his childhood: “My biggest Six Nations memory is Wales’ 30-3 win over England in 2013.”
For Hathaway, the Six Nations is more than just a competition; it’s the opportunity of a lifetime.
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