THE autumn started with Hallam Amos being back three back-up courtesy of an injury to George North. It ended with the Dragons wing being a genuine contender for the XV in the Six Nations opener against Scotland.

The 23-year-old has grown on the Test scene and can reflect on a series in which he scored tries against Australia and Georgia plus made telling contributions against New Zealand and South Africa.

Amos is more consistent, more solid in defence, he is making more impact with ball in hand and his decision-making has improved to ensure that his name is in the mix for the February 3 opener at Principality Stadium.

The Dragons man, who now has 14 caps to his name, is set to return to full-back on regional duty because of Zane Kirchner’s shoulder injury.

Yet it is out wide that he is likely to be an option for Warren Gatland, who will hope to have North back in the mix for the Six Nations.

Amos started the autumn ranked fourth – Leigh Halfpenny, Liam Williams and Steff Evans in the back three, then the Dragon, then Alex Cuthbert behind him.

Arguably he ends it ahead of Evans in the pecking order after the inexperienced Scarlets man was a little exposed at the highest level in defence and wrapped up in attack.

And Amos is putting the heat on solid and dependable Halfpenny as Wales attempt to find their attacking verve.

Against the Boks he set up Scott Williams’ opener and made three clean breaks, beating four defenders and offloading three times.

“I thought he was outstanding,” said the Ospreys-bound centre. “He was very good in the air and is very good in attack.

“I think it was up there as one of the best games that I have seen him play for Wales. He hasn’t had many opportunities with the good competition from wingers but that competition is good.

“It shows that if we have got a few injuries in that position we have got good boys to come in and do a job.”