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Rugby Union

Jenkins to lead Wales

12/11/2007

Prop Gethin Jenkins will skipper Wales into their November test against newly-crowned world champions South Africa at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

The 26-year-old Cardiff Blues star takes up the position after the international retirement of former captain Gareth Thomas in the wake of the Dragons' early World Cup exit at the hands of Fiji.

His promotion comes courtesy of caretaker coach Nigel Davies who will have just one game at the helm before Warren Gatland takes charge in time to prepare for next year's Six Nations.

Jenkins has accumulated 52 caps for his country and Davies issued a ringing endorsement of the qualities that have kept him in the national side despite currently struggling for a regular front-row berth at his club.

"Anyone who knows or has worked with Gethin will tell you he sets high standards for himself and those around him," Davies said.

"For our meeting with South Africa we need a captain who will galvanize the squad, someone who every player will be proud to stand in line behind and someone who strives for perfection in himself and those around him - Gethin fits the bill."

Jenkins conceded that his appointment was unexpected, but vowed to push the Springboks all the way as the two sides contest the inaugural Prince William Cup.

"When Nigel asked me to be his captain against South Africa I have to admit it came as a bit of a surprise and I did take some time to think about it, but there was only ever going to be one answer," he said.

"Leading the team out at the Millennium Stadium, probably in front of a packed house of home fans and against the current Rugby World Cup champions will be a pretty special way to win my first cap as captain.

"It's their first game since winning the Cup, so the scalps aren't going to come much bigger than that for at least the next four years."

The match takes place on November 24th.