Navidi is riding a wave to Japan

MEET Josh Navidi: dreadlocked surfer, son of an Iranian wrestler, nightclub DJ, casual farmer and full-time rugby player.

‘Where the hell did you find that guy?’ asked All Blacks coach Steve Hansen when he saw the flanker playing for Wales in 2017.

The answer lies in Llantwit Major, where Navidi’s remote smallholding backs onto the rocky Bristol Channel coastline.

A collection of surfboards is stashed away, although shoulder and knee injuries meant that Navidi missed the best of the winter swell. Surgery and rehabilitation made for a frustrating 2018 but Navidi is back in time for the Six Nations and the World Cup.

‘It’s been so frustrating,’ says Navidi, 28. ‘I was out of action for 16 weeks with my shoulder. I had seven pins put in over the summer, then I played five games on my comeback and did my cruciate ligament. My dad always reminds me that every game could be your last. That’s how I play. Now I am ready to go again.’

Navidi made his Test debut in 2013 but he had to wait more than four years for his second cap.

‘Josh was probably player of the autumn in 2017,’ said Wales head coach Warren Gatland.

‘He was the player in situ at No 7. We know what a talented player he is but he has got to make the most of his opportunity.’

Navidi’s strength over the ball makes him a dangerous turnover threat, while he is also capable of covering every position across the back row.

‘For a couple of years, Wales have probably lacked some depth,’ says Navidi. ‘Now there are guys who can step in for injured guys and do a job.

‘We’re in a good place. The boys had a good autumn and a good summer tour. If you get a good couple of wins in the Six Nations, you’re in a positive space for the World Cup. You want to keep that momentum ticking over.’