Wales have received a heroes welcome upon their arrival home at the team’s base in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Despite being knocked out in the quarter finals, the players recaptured the public’s imagination after some morale boosting performances against New Zealand and, finally, England as well as capturing three wins against Canada, Tonga and Italy.
Around 220 fans were there to greet the players, who had brought back memories of the glory days of Welsh rugby.
In defeat, the Wales team played rugby that promised a return to the great days of the 1970s.
"When we first got over to Australia, people didn't have much confidence in us, but hopefully we have proved we can compete with the best by putting on some good performances," captain Colin Charvis told the BBC.
Wales unveiled plenty of promising talent during the Tournament with rugby league convert Iestyn Harris confirmed as a world class player, while the future looks bright with the likes of wing Shane Williams and flanker Jonathan Thomas both blooming.
The rise of expectation
The only setback for the team was the new rise in expectation which will follow them into their next endeavour. Welsh Rugby Union President Sir Tasker Watkins said the players will now carry this burden on their shoulders.
He told the team: "Thank you for rescuing the name of Wales in the rugby family.
"This performance has re-established our position as one of the best half dozen rugby teams in the world.
"You have gladdened the hearts of the Welsh people, but you have earned a heavy burden.
"Next year I expect you to win the Triple Crown and the Grand Slam [in the Six Nations], or else."