ELLIOT Dee is bidding to lose his tag as Wales’ super sub for Wales in the Six Nations – with the vital support of his rival for the 2 jersey.

The Dragons hooker started in last weekend’s narrow 16-14 loss against England at Twickenham after shining off the bench against Scotland in round one.

The 29-year-old from Newbridge has a big opportunity to stake a claim to be a regular starter after spending most of his Test career as an impact sub.

Dee is likely to win his 49th cap against Grand Slam-chasing Ireland in Dublin a week on Saturday and if he retains his place in the XV then it will be a 13th start.

After making his Test debut in 2017, the Dragons man established himself as Ken Owens’ back-up and recently he has been the dependable option wearing 16 while Dewi Lake, currently injured, and Ryan Elias have started.

Dee, a Warren Gatland favourite, made a late surge into the World Cup squad last year and is now at the heart of the action as a starter.

“I am just really enjoying my rugby at the moment. The atmosphere in the camp and the togetherness, you couldn’t ask for more,” said Dee, whose previous two starts in the Six Nations were against Italy.

“Everybody is here to work hard, coaches and players. No stone is left unturned and it’s a really enjoyable environment to be in.

“There is great competition at hooker as well with Ryan and Evan [Lloyd]. We support each other and are happy to do a job, whoever starts and whoever benches.

“It’s healthy to have that support because it’s a mental battle in international rugby, so to know somebody is supporting you is great.”

South Wales Argus: Wales hooker Elliot Dee in training ahead of the England gameWales hooker Elliot Dee in training ahead of the England game (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

That Dee has caught the eye is even more impressive given that he headed into the tournament without playing since the start of December because of a rib injury.

The Dragons man is performing well but sadly in a losing team after a fightback against Scotland fell agonisingly short then England rallied in the second half to take the spoils.

“They have been two very narrow defeats,” said Dee. “It’s almost tougher to take when it’s so close and sometimes easier when blown away.

“There is plenty to be proud of out there and we are aware that we are a young squad in transition, but unfortunately in the Six Nations you have to improve and improve quickly. It’s all about winning games.”

It will be a huge shock if the elusive win comes in Dublin with Gatland’s side then returning to Cardiff to face France and Italy.

But the inexperienced squad is learning fast with Dee playing his part, according to conditioning coach Huw Bennett.

“Elliot is well established within the group. He is a good character and one of the experienced players, you can see him really helping the youngsters come through,” said the former Wales hooker.

“His work rate is really good and it’s always different coming off the bench, as I can say from experience, but he had an opportunity to start and took it well.”