Eddie James conducted his post-match media duties at Principality Stadium while clutching a souvenir match ball.
Perhaps the one he dotted down for one of Wales’ five tries in the historic 35-28 win against New Zealand, maybe the one he wrapped up with his long right arm in one of many telling defensive moments.
The 24-year-old Scarlets centre has become a firm fixture in Steve Tandy’s starting line-up because of his strong running and offloading threat.
He crossed down the left wing early in the second half, yet it is one of his 25 tackles that is one of the moments to watch and rewatch.
At 35-21, a try looked certain when Anton Lienert-Brown burst towards the line but James reached out, stopped the New Zealand centre a metre out and ensured there was no offload.
The All Blacks would go over one more time but it was a moment to encapsulate Wales’ defensive desire.
“I honestly can’t feel a thing,” he said while still in his kit, almost an hour after the final whistle.
“I haven’t been able feel my feet for a long time now. It was an amazing performance defensively.
“We’re such a small nation and we pride ourselves a lot on our heart.”
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