Six Nations 2026: England players ‘scratching heads’ over Wales’ struggles

It will be a first Six Nations as the boss for Tandy, who left his role as Scotland defence coach last summer to return to Wales.

There were flashes of encouragement in what was ultimately a tough autumn campaign that featured heavy losses to Argentina, New Zealand and South Africa and a last-kick win against Japan.

Smith insists that brighter times are ahead, saying “the sky is the limit”, but that starts by being consistently competitive against European rivals.

“In the autumn, let’s not beat around the bush, the results weren’t good enough, but there were moments where the boys shone and showed what we can do,” said the former Osprey.

“Can we repeat that? Can we do it again and again? With a new coaching set-up and boys coming in, we were getting aligned and we are certainly going in the right direction.”

Wales ended last season’s dismal Six Nations campaign with a record 68-14 defeat to England in Cardiff but Smith insists this year’s opener in London is not a foregone conclusion.

“We want to hit the ground running in the Six Nations and get back to being in games.

“If moments don’t go your way, that’s rugby, but the big thing is being in those moments in as many games as possible.”