Lock Will Rowlands says players have to accept responsibility for the “brutal situation” Wales are in as they prepare to face world champions South Africa on Saturday.
Wales have lost a record 11 consecutive internationals which has resulted in the position of head coach Warren Gatland coming under scrutiny.
Gatland’s side have not claimed a Test match victory since the 2023 World Cup and face losing every match in the 2024 calendar year.
“We are all very aware we are the players, ultimately, we are the people who are playing the game and who control whether we win or lose,” said Rowlands.
“You need good coaching input, support staff, you need everything else around it, but ultimately, the buck falls with us.
“We are the ones responsible. Everyone is aware of that. We are the ones who have let ourselves down, probably, so far.
“Gats [Warren Gatland] is a very good man and he has done a great job for Wales. It is a brutal situation for everyone to be in.”
‘Horrible feeling of losing’
Video caption,Warren Gatland: Head coach hopes for time to turn Wales’ fortunes around
Racing 92 lock Rowlands, 33, outlined the passion within the Wales squad to turn things around.
“It matters a huge amount to us to be able to play for Wales,” said Rowlands.
“When you lose any game, particularly when you feel you haven’t given the best account of yourselves, you feel you have let down yourselves, the public and the whole group. It is a horrible feeling.
“Sport is a rollercoaster, and sometimes there are more ups than downs. We are in one of the down periods.
“We are the players on the pitch, guys who are pulling on the shirt and trying to give the best performance to back up everyone else – the coach, other players who aren’t playing, the support staff, the fans and people who come to the stadium.
“So, I hope in tough times is when strong characters are made. I’ve got confidence in the group that will be the case.”