Six Nations: Georgia coach Richard Cockerill wants Wales play-off

Georgia's head coach, Richard Cockerill, has set his sights on a potential play-off against Wales as his team continues to ascend in the world of international rugby. Under Cockerill's guidance, Georgia has climbed to the 11th spot in the world rankings, nudging above Wales, a traditional rugby powerhouse currently facing struggles. This surge in rankings has fuelled discussions around the structure of the Six Nations Championship and whether it's time to consider expansion or a relegation-promotion system to foster competitive balance and growth in the rugby union. Cockerill's aspirations for a play-off against Wales reflect a broader ambition within Georgian rugby to test themselves regularly against top-tier nations. Georgia's performance in recent years, especially their robust showing in the Rugby Europe Championship, where they've been dominant forces, underscores their readiness to compete at a higher level. The idea of a play-off against Wales is not merely about proving Georgia's worthiness on the rugby field. It's also about the growth of the sport, offering fans new narratives, and ensuring the Six Nations remains dynamic and competitive. As the rugby landscape evolves, with shifts in global rankings and the emergence of new powerhouses, the dialogue around inclusion and opportunities for nations like Georgia becomes increasingly significant. The potential match-up with Wales embodies the ongoing conversation about the future of international rugby and the pathways for emerging nations to shine on the sport's biggest stages. Richard Cockerill's ambition for Georgia is a testament to the progress the team has made