Max Llewellyn has revealed that he is loving life in the Cardiff Blues’ first team environment, as he is set to make his first start of the season in Monday’s Guinness PRO14 encounter against Edinburgh Rugby.
Coincidentally, the young centre made his first Guinness PRO14 start at BT Murrayfield in this fixture back in February, and returns to the starting line-up to partner Garyn Smith in midfield.
Llewellyn admits he’s thriving from working with experienced centre such as Willis Halaholo and Rey Lee-Lo on a daily basis and is excited for the challenge ahead at the Scottish capital.
“It’s been a great experience to be around the first team squad and I was fortunate last year to also be in the first team environment,” said the academy product.
“Everyone around the club has been fantastic in helping me out, which includes on the pitch in terms of giving me little pointers and I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far.
“Willis and Rey have been great especially for someone like me on the training ground.
“They’ll tell me what I need to do and give me those little pointers, but it’s also about watching them with the lines they take and the moves that they do.
“It gives me something, visually, to look at and try to replicate that myself.
“There’s been a few knocks and a few bumps and bruises so hopefully I can’t get some game time up in Edinburgh.
“Edinburgh are a really good team, and have been for a while, and we know what to expect.
“They’ve got good ball carrying forwards and their backs aren’t afraid to play either.
“It’s going need a big performance from us to go up there and win.”