Wales prop Francis targets fourth World Cup

Wales prop Tomas Francis says the prospect of playing in a fourth World Cup drives him on. Tomas Francis made his Wales debut against Ireland in August 2015 Francis, 34, could become part of an exclusive Welsh group next year if he is named for a fourth global tournament in Australia. Only Gareth Thomas, Stephen Jones, Gethin Jenkins, Alun Wyn Jones and George North have achieved that accolade for Wales. Francis says he would have laughed if somebody had told him during his first World Cup in 2015 that 12 years later he might complete a quartet of competitions. "You never think far ahead and I was happy to get one cap then," said Francis.

"You just keep trying to improve and stay in that competition for the jersey. "So now a [fourth World Cup], is a great carrot to have." Following the 2023 World Cup, Francis took a break from international rugby after leaving Ospreys to join French Pro D2 side Provence. "I think for about two-and-a half years I was away for eight nights and I had two young girls," said Francis. "As a father you can't get that time back. I'd given my all for two World Cup cycles, so for Welsh rugby and me, it was right to have a little time away. "It gave time