Scrum of the Earth /

Wales like their pocket-rocket centres with Scott Gibbs, Sonny Parker and Jamie Roberts all wearing the red jersey in stocky fashion, but down in mid-Wales and not for the first time, a young lad by the name of Jonathan Davies is making a name for himself with some rambunkscious performances in the Magners League.

You’re almost forced to play It’s just the natural thing to do for a kid growing up in Wales. I came from a primary school with very few pupils so I started playing for a local side in St. Clears and my dad was always a big influence on me and in such a small community, rugby brings everyone together, so it seemed like the right thing to do.

I want to make him proud and play for Wales one day My dad, Mike Davies, played for London Welsh and people would always tell me good stories about him so it’s always in the back of my mind.

I love the team environment The best thing about rugby - making connections outside school and all around the country - is getting to bridge relationships with guys who you’re going to play with for the rest of your career.

I’m happiest when I’m active I do a lot of outdoor stuff and try to get down on the beach as much as possible. My friends all play a bit of cricket so it keeps the fitness levels up during the off-season. I’m not lazy, I just like getting out and about.

I’ve been compared to Scott Gibbs It’s flattering but I like to play a powerful game. I like to carry the ball quite hard and make big tackles so you could say there’s more of an emphasis on defensive qualities.

My left foot isn’t too cultured I found myself quite quiet mixing with the seniors, there was not so much confidence there, so I’ve probably got to work on my communication, my kicking and a bit of handling skills.

Tana Umaga has my early hero He was a great leader and such a fantastic all-round player. Obviously I watched and admired the way Scott Gibbs carried the ball and his physicality and Jonah Lomu was a hero especially being such a big powerful player.

It was like a war zone Making my Heineken Cup debut at Thomond Park against Munster was a real eye opener and definitely my toughest test. Their support was magnificent and it was such a privilege to play in front of such passionate supporters. I’ll never forget that day and that occasion.