Young’s previous two caps came against Tonga and Samoa in the summer of 2017, but he has been named in Warren Gatland’s starting side for the clash in Rome.
The Wasps back-row forward is one of 10 changes made by the Wales head coach. He can’t wait to run out at the Stadio Olimpico.
“It’ been a long time for me, but I’ve been focusing on club level. Everyone wants to play international rugby, but my focus had to be on Wasps and playing well,” Young said.
“Wales have a lot of quality back-rowers. If my focus went away from what I was doing week in, week out, then you tend to start not playing well. Obviously I’m glad to be here now.
“It is really competitive in this Wales squad, but I suppose that brings out the best in every player as every time you go out you have to make sure you are playing well.
“From my point of view I’ve just got to keep knocking on the door. I like to get the ball in my hands and be an attacking threat. This season I’ve worked a lot on the breakdown aspect and I may have had a bit of reward for that. I will continue to work on it.”
Young will pack down in the Welsh back-row alongside Aaron Wainwright and Josh Navidi. Experienced centre Jonathan Davies will captain Gatland’s team for the first time.
Young has never played in the Six Nations, but he does have experience of the tournament – as a mascot for his father and former Wales international Dai.
“I was eight or nine and my brothers Lewis and Owen and I all ran out with our little red shirts as mascots for dad’s 50th cap,” Young said. “That’s one I do remember, but it’s one dad wants to forget as he was captain and Wales got a bit of a hammering. It was still a proud moment for us all.
“The Six Nations is probably the best competition in the world and everyone watches it. To be part of it and actually play in it is something I’ll be very proud of.
“My parents were both happy when they found out and they started looking for flights. They get to Rome on Saturday morning.
“They are proud. It’ll be a lovely occasion and it’s something I’m looking forward to.”
