Shane Williams: Rhino-skinned Dan Biggar has the self-belief to reach very top

Dan Biggar was one of the most confident men I played with and I always knew he had something special. So it was no surprise to me to see him become the first player in Welsh regional rugby to pass 2,000 points.
A fly-half has to have the ability to control a game and I played with some great points scorers including Neil Jenkins, Stephen Jones and James Hook. But I remember one day during training with the Ospreys which told me Dan would make it to the top. It was early on in his career but he gave Alun Wyn Jones and Adam Jones – two of Wales‘ most experienced forwards – a right rollicking during one session.
Adam was always pretty chilled about things, but you don’t mess with Alun Wyn. He’s someone who doesn’t like to be told off so for Dan to stand up to him was a big thing. It was quite a surreal experience when it happened, but showed he had the ticker to be the main man. We used to call Dan Rhino Skin. The way he shouted at Alun Wyn demonstrated why – that’s what you want in a 10.
What’s exciting too is that he’s not yet the finished article. He’s close to being the best defensive fly-half in the world and he’s added a lot to his game in attack. His kicking is first class and he’s only risen to the challenge of playing with Sam Davies. The way he’s going he’ll be in contention for the Lions.
Neil was another player who wore his heart on his sleeve but he’d struggle with referees if he was playing now! He always said what he thought which you just can’t get away with now. Stephen, on the other hand, was different. He was whiter than white, well liked in the squad and hugely respected for what he achieved. I think he can also go on to become one of the best coaches around.
All three are different characters and players, but the challenge for Dan now is to now emulate what the other two achieved. He definitely has the ability to do it.