The 27-year-old Ospreys hooker is one of nine changes to the Welsh side as they strive to kick-start their Autumn Series with a win over Fiji ahead of the visit of New Zealand in a week’s time.
Wales have lost their two opening games of the Autumn Series and Bennett is adamant that a win against Fiji would boost not just Warren Gatland’s men but the whole of Wales.
“It would boost morale in the squad but also the morale in the whole nation,” said Bennett.
“We go out there and give everything and we know we aren’t just playing for ourselves but the whole nation. There is a bit of doom and gloom because of the world situation but we know we can put a smile on everybody’s face with a win.”
With Matthew Rees named skipper for the Tests against the Wallabies and Springboks, Bennett had to make do with a place on the bench. But he is looking forward to making a big impression on Friday when he starts against the Fijians.
“It’s nice to have the No 2 shirt again and I am looking forward to it,” continued Bennett.
“When you have a guy in the same position who is captain, you know what the situation is. It can be frustrating but you know you just have to do a job when you come off the bench. In fairness to Matthew, he has done very well as captain in the last few games.
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“The scrum and lineout have been good so far. The lineout has been solid and the scrum has been really good. We may have some changes but we are looking to improve on that.
“Fiji are a powerful attacking team and they like to play when they have the ball in their hands. W know we have to tire them out through the set piece and we know that will help us through the game.”
Another motivating factor for Wales will be the painful memories of their 2007 World Cup exit at the hands of Fiji. Bennett did not play in the disappointing loss but was part of the squad and the Ospreys hooker insists Wales have learnt their lessons.
“It was just a massive disappointment,” added Bennett. “I don’t think we disrespected them but they sent us out of the competition and we had to pack our bags and go home.
“There was a huge feeling of frustration after the game and it is something we are looking to out right and it will be at the back of a lot of our minds on Friday.
I” was one of the lowest points in Welsh rugby in recent times. I can’t remember many that left you feeling as low as that.
“We cannot let them play as freely as they did that day. We need a strong set piece, be physical and play it tight when we need to. We also have to play the game in the right areas of the pitch this time.”
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