ACADEMY winger Josh Adams has found his debut season in this year’s Aviva Premiership very ‘intense’ but believes he has delivered in his performances for head coach Carl Hogg.
The 21-year-old Welshman, who has stepped up from Warriors’ academy to play three Premiership and two European Challenge Cup games, admitted he was nervous at first, but is now ‘thoroughly enjoying’ his time mixing with the seniors.
“I didn’t expect to be part of Hogg’s first-team plans this year. I’ve been very fortunate to feature in the Premiership,” said Adams.
“Obviously there’s some quality players ahead of me, but through injuries I’ve managed to get myself in the mix and I’m thoroughly enjoying my time being amongst the first team.
“When I came on to replace Dean Hammond in the Bath match, I was nervous, but I don’t think I had too bad of a game when you take into account the hostile atmosphere at the Rec.
“I’ve found the Premiership very intense. The guys are a lot more physically built and faster, stronger and quicker than in the academy. I haven’t been amazing, but I think I’ve held my own.
“To get my first try against Enisei-STM was a great feeling. I played full-back against the Russians, but as a winger it’s important to get on the scoresheet as often as I can.”
The former Wales Under-20 winger is ‘working his socks off’ to stay on Hogg’s radar.
“I just want to keep consistent now and do my best for the team,” he said. “Every time I take to the training field I’m learning and asking questions, which will hopefully improve my performance and keep me in the first team.
“I’m still young and not the finished article by far, so I’m working my socks off every day to get better.”