CAM Winnett admits his meteoric rise over the past 12 months has been mentally challenging.
He went into last season as a little known rookie with just three appearances for Cardiff Rugby to his name, yet he has now started all but one of Wales‘ last eight Test matches.
The 21-year-old fullback from Rhondda is the first to concede it’s been a surreal experience.
“I didn’t expect to be where I am now,” he says.
“So much has happened over the last 12 months and it was mentally challenging, suddenly being in the spotlight.
“It was my first professional season and I ended up playing most of the games for Cardiff and most of the games for Wales as well. So it’s going to be a lot to take in.
“I’ve got kids asking for photos and all the youngsters back home looking up to me now which is quite surreal because I just feel like a kid from the Rhondda.
“Over the summer was the first time I have had a chance to draw breath and think about it all. It was nice to reflect on it. My first cap was obviously a major one. I’m happy with the way the season went and I’ve come out the other side and I’m ready to go again now.”
On the summer tour of Australia, Win-nett found himself vying for the Wales No 15 jersey with the returning Liam Willliams.
“Liam is a legend in Wales,” he says. “It’s gone from him being one of my heroes growing up, watching him for Wales, to being like a mate now, playing alongside him and learning from him. He’s been good with me.
“It was a class experience out in Australia. I really enjoyed it. Playing against a side like the Wallabies was really good.”
Winnett has recently moved to a new home – but is still very much a Wattstown lad. “I have bought a house just three doors up from my parents,” he said. “I will still be around!
“We have got a real tight family. My cousin lives next door, I have got my auntie behind me. We are all in a real good area and I wouldn’t want to move from them.”
He concludes: “It was nice to have a little break over the summer, but I am looking forward to getting back now and having a positive season. I have gained a lot of experience and hopefully I will be a better player than last year.”
