The rising Welsh rugby stars to watch this season

Morgan Morse – back row

Already established at the Ospreys, the 20 year-old is probably the best known on this watchlist.

A product of Cwmtwrch RFC, Morse’s talent was apparent from an early age and he was selected for Wales Under-20s just a week after his 17th birthday.

But despite standout displays in recent seasons, a senior cap has so far eluded him.

Matt Sherratt left him out of Wales’ summer tour of Japan, saying he was “a hell of a player” but not an out and out number eight.

Former head coach Toby Booth managed Morse in terms of minutes and expectation, but Whiffin thinks this could be the season where he could be unleashed.

“Morgan is definitely ready, he’s had a summer itching to get ready, to get his boots back on and play,” said Whiffin.

“It’s a tough back row to get into down at the Ospreys, but he’s certainly someone that has an unbelievable amount of X factor.

“He has an athletic ability that not many possess and I think it’s time now for him to cut his teeth at the top end, and with that you then have to earn the right to get a shirt, keep a shirt and play for it for as long as you can.

“I think this could be a breakthrough year for him.”