By Peter Ryan
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Nobody is making an impact quite like Macs Page right now. He has set Parc y Scarlets alight, leaving a wake of defenders in his path.
Explosive, powerful, and rapid are a few words that describe the rising star perfectly. Page has quickly established himself as a standout player for the Scarlets and is undoubtedly on Wales‘ radar.
The Welsh will head to the Land of the Forgotten Sun in the summer as they are set to square off against Japan. It is the perfect opportunity to mark the arrival of Page on the international stage.
Macs Page
Forging his skills from a young age at teams like Fishguard RFC and Crymych RFC, Page laid an early foundation for success.
However, for a brief time, a career with the egg-shaped ball did not seem to be on the cards. Page was part of Swansea‘s football academy for three years, but eventually, he returned to rugby.
At 16, Page took the first steps towards becoming a professional rugby player as he joined the Scarlets academy.
Whilst running out for Scarlets West, the 20-year-old put in many spellbinding displays, highlighting the impact he would have in the future.
On 9th November 2021, Page signed his first academy contract, and three years later, he made his debut against Zebre.
The infamous Church Bank is where Page ran riot as part of a formidable Llandovery side. In the 2023/24 season, the 20-year-old contributed to Llandovery’s title-winning campaign.
Page’s try against Cardiff went a long way in deciding the semi-final contest’s outcome, and he then started on the wing in a memorable final win over Newport RFC.
The following season, he would mirror his hat-trick heroics at the U20 World Championship against Australia.
However, this time, he swapped out the Wallabies for the ‘Black and Ambers.’ It shows that Page produces regardless of location, opponent, or level.
Page has represented his country at under-18 and under-20 levels.
The Scarlets winger left a lasting impression in the 2024 U20 Six Nations. From start to finish, Page delivered at the U20 World Championships, cementing his place in the Team of the Tournament.
As stated before, his hat-trick against Australia U20 was a shining moment in a prosperous championship.
He got his first taste of international rugby at the senior level when the 20-year-old was invited to train with Wales in the autumn.
There is no doubt that Page will be in a Wales jersey in the not-too-distant future.
Page This Season
His influence on the Scarlets has been impossible to ignore—a player making waves throughout the season.
Page has been one of the standout players in Llanelli. You feel like a magic moment will happen whenever he touches the ball.
What is especially impressive is that Page can stand out in such a potent backline.
Week in, week out, he fights hard for a spot in the starting line-up, and the fierce competition is bound to accelerate his growth significantly in a season full of milestones, including crossing the whitewash for his first Scarlets try and dipping his toes into European competition for the first time.
From a statistician’s perspective, Page has risen to the occasion in the URC. Throughout the competition, he has secured five tries, which puts him tenth in the league.
He can also be trusted to make the hard yards, as Page has made 384 metres off 56 carries. Maximising every carry, dancing past defenders with ease, he has left 30 defenders scattered in his path while bursting through for 11 clean breaks.
Breaking down the numbers, Page’s form surely warrants a Wales call-up—doesn’t it?
International Opportunity
Putting on a Welsh jersey is the dream for any young player who picks up a rugby ball.
Page shouldn’t be left waiting in the wings for much longer when Wales is looking for new stars to take the proud rugby nation into a new generation.
Without a doubt, Page has the credentials to be a star in the Welsh game. For Page, the Japan tour could be the gateway to international recognition.
Blooding young talent in the summer is crucial with an eye on the 2027 World Cup.
The lack of depth at outside centre means that getting Page international experience could be key to the World Cup and beyond.
Page’s potential for greatness is a source of excitement for rugby fans.
As he stands at the start of his journey, the road ahead promises to be fascinating. With all the athletic tools to succeed in rugby, Page’s every step on the field is bound to be box office.
At just 20 years old, his potential extends far beyond the horizon. There’s no doubt that he’s on the road to greatness for Wales, and watching his journey unfold will be thrilling.
