Ben Warren believes the home crowd in Colwyn Bay will give Wales under-20 a boost, as they prepare to get their Six Nations campaign underway on Friday (KO 7.35pm).
Italy under-20 are the visitors to Stadiwm Zip World on the opening weekend, as Gareth Williams’ side look to build on an encouraging display in the World Championship over the summer, where they finished in sixth place following wins over hosts Argentina, Fiji and New Zealand.
Warren is one of five Cardiff Blues academy players included in the squad - alongside Jacob Beetham, Gwilym Bradley, Theo Bevacqua and Ioan R Davies - with academy coach Gethin Jenkins heading up the defence as part of Williams’ backroom staff.
The prop, who is one of eight players to retain their spots in the squad from last season’s campaign, is excited by the make-up of the squad this year and is looking forward to get the ball rolling on Friday.
“I really can’t wait to get up to north Wales,” said the Welsh under-20 international.
“The crowd up there are great, and they really got behind us last year in the two games that we had.
“They were especially behind the success that we had against England, and hopefully they’ll be behind us once again this year.
“They can really lift the boys, and we’ll be looking to bring the positivity from last year into this year.
"This year we have a mixture of experience and some younger players who are coming through.
“I’m lucky to be back this year as one of the eight players who played during last season’s Six Nations.
“We have a lot of flair in the squad, and some of the younger boys will be in this squad looking to make a statement.”