'Best feeling in the world': Williams riding emotional wave after strong Wallabies debut

Sun, Jul 7, 2024, 7:42 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Wallabies v Wales Highlights | First Test | 2024

Wallabies debutant Jeremy Williams was still on cloud nine as he reflected on his Test debut on home soil against Wales.

The NSW-born Williams put in a strong 80-minute performance as the Australians came away with the 25-16 win over the Welsh.

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“That is the best feeling in the world. I don't think anything beats that," Williams said on the post-match coverage.

“Got all of the family here. It doesn’t get much better than this.

“I absolutely loved it. Definitely, it is a different level but I love it and I just want more of it."

The 23-year-old has had an incredible 2024 season, beginning with his appointment as Western Force captain.

A strong season in the West caught the eye of Joe Schmidt, who had no hesitation in throwing him straight into the starting side on debut.

The faith was repaid as Williams delivered in the victory, stealing an important lineout whilst working hard in attack and defence.

The opportunity to debut in front of his home crowd made the night even more special, with the lock catching eyes with a small group of family and friends in the crowd as he sang the national anthem before the game.

“It’s pretty special," he reflected on Sunday.

“It’s a dream to be able to go out there and wear that gold jersey, it’s such an honour."

Williams will savour the moment but knows the focus needs to move to the second Test in Melbourne, with the Wallabies travelling south earlier in the day.

“It’s definitely good to start the series with a win but we’ve still got a lot of work to do," he added.

“We’ll keep putting in the work at training and progressing but it’s good to start off the win and we’ve got to keep backing it up.

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