Louis Rees-Zammit: I’m telling myself I’ve played my last game of rugby

Rees-Zammit and the other international players in the IPP, including former Northampton Saints back Harry Mallinder who is hoping to make the league as a punter, are nearing the end of their in-depth crash course. Of course the financial benefits of making it in the NFL are astronomical but Rees-Zammit’s bid to do what so many rugby players have failed to do in the past by becoming a full-time starter in the NFL - apart from Jordan Mailata, the excellent Eagles offensive tackle - all started with his father who played for Cardiff Tigers in the 1980s. It’s just about working hard now I’m here to try and get that opportunity.” His favourite player growing up was DeSean Jackson, the Philadelphia Eagles receiver whose most famous play was the ‘Miracle at the Meadowlands’, an astonishing punt return to win the game in the final seconds against the New York Giants. ‘When I watch Wales play it still feels like I’m on the pitch’ Rees-Zammit might not be contemplating a return to rugby but he has been watching as much of Wales in this Six Nations as possible when not at training, impressed with how Cam Winnett has settled in at full-back – “He has been unbelievable for being thrown into his first campaign” – and insisting that a young group must be given time. I have no doubt the more games they play they will get better and better.” One comment about rugby however does stick out when discussing celebrations, after Rees-Zammit was criticised during the World Cup for doing Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Siu’ celebration following a try against Portugal.