Despite his status as the top try-scorer at last year’s World Cup in Japan, Adams still recognises the competition he will have for a starting spot this autumn.
“If it came down to a shoot-out between George North, Liam Williams, Leigh Halfpenny, Owen Lane, Louis Rees-Zammit, Johnny McNicholl and me I know I wouldn’t win,” admitted Adams.
“If everyone was fit I’d put my money on someone like Louis or Johnny. To be fair to Louis, he is quick – a young whippet. All credit to him, he has done fantastically well when he’s had his opportunities.
“I think it’s brilliant he’s having a bit of time at full-back as well this season.
“You have to be versatile and be able to cover No 15 as well as wing. For him to get exposure at full-back will definitely be beneficial for him going forward.
“I will hold my hands up and say that one of those two, Louis or Johnny, would pip me in a race.”
However fleet of foot he might be, Rees-Zammit still has some ground to make up on both Adams and North in the one race that really matters – getting into the Welsh team.
Adams has 14 tries in 24 Tests and 10 in his last 10 international outings and has become Wales’ go-to winger. His international record since a February 2018 debut speaks for itself.
He scored a try for Cardiff Blues to help John Mulvihill’s side start their new Guinness PRO14 season with a 16-6 away win over Zebre last Friday night.
That score was Adams’ eighth in nine games for the Blues.
“I just want to pick up where I left off last season before I got injured. There are no thoughts of South Africa in my mind – the only focus is playing well for the Blues,” added Adams.
“If I don’t do that then I won’t get into the Welsh squad. And if I don’t make the Welsh squad I won’t get a look in for the Lions. It is as simple as that.
“The key to success is working hard on your weaknesses and strengthening your strengths. You can take nothing for granted, especially as we are blessed with back-three players in Wales.
“They are all in form and full of experience.
“It’s a really competitive group and we are always pushing each other.”
