A Wales midfielder’s perspective after two years away
Joe Hawkins has opened up on the two seasons he spent in international exile while playing in England, reflecting that his time at Exeter ultimately reaffirmed how much he loves representing Wales. The experience offered fresh perspectives on club routines, competition and personal development, but also intensified the hunger to pull on the red jersey again.
Lessons from the Premiership stint
Hawkins speaks candidly about adapting to a new environment, stepping outside comfort zones, and the challenges of being unavailable for national selection. The takeaway is both sobering and motivating: absence from Test rugby clarifies priorities, and returning home can be both a career and personal reset.
As he looks ahead, the centre’s focus is on translating those lessons into consistent performances and re-establishing himself at international level.