I can still thrive for Wales despite size - Murray

Blair Murray believes size is not everything as he looks to win back his starting spot with Wales.

The Scarlets back enjoyed a rapid rise on the Test stage by featuring in all 14 internationals after making his debut against Fiji in 2024.

Murray started at full-back in Steve Tandy's first four games but has missed out on the XV in the Six Nations.

The 24-year-old sat out losses to England and France before featuring as a replacement on the wing against Scotland in round three.

At 5ft 7ins, Murray's aerial prowess has been one of the main reasons for missing out with Louis Rees-Zammit, 6ft 2ins, getting the nod at 15.

However, the Scarlets man believe his game-breaking abilities give him a shot at earning a return to Wales' starting line-up against Ireland next Friday (20:10 GMT).

"I'd like to think I am in the squad for a reason," said Murray. "I bring something that other players don't, so I just hope I get that opportunity.

"Steve has been transparent and kept it clear in terms of selection, so I just have to train my way back in."

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Wales have selected Rees-Zammit at full-back while Josh Adams, Ellis Mee and Gabriel Hamer-Webb have had starts on the wings.

"I play differently to somebody who is 6ft 5ins but I don't think someone my height can't play," said Murray.

"When I have played I've done pretty well and made a case for being able to play as a short player.

"I still think any shape or size can play rugby, things change tactically but I still think that saying goes strong."

Murray has been a victim of a change to the laws that mean that defenders are no longer able to block chasers of the high ball.

Wales are joint bottom with Italy for retained kicks in the Six Nations with 11 compared to top-ranked France's 25.

"Without people being able to block, it does become a straight one on one in the air," said Murray.

"We've done a lot of work and talked about how many balls get caught cleanly and it's quite a low percentage.

"France get their winger just to slap it back, even when receiving from another team. It's a bit of a vulnerable spot on the field.

"You can't really make excuses. If I am in that position then I have to be confident that I am going to win the ball."

Wales, who trained against the Under-20s on Friday, could name reinforcements to their squad at the start of next week after losing lock Rhys Davies and flanker Taine Plumtree to injury.

Tandy will also watch the United Rugby Championship (URC) fixtures with interest after sending nine players out for club action.