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Rugby Union

Thomas to break Wales caps record

23/05/2007

Gareth Thomas is set to become Wales' most capped player when he leads the team out for the first Test match against Australia on Saturday.

The 33-year-old will earn his 93rd cap on the right wing, with pacy wide man Chris Czekaj playing as blind-side winger.

Another young starlet James Hook starts at fly-half alongside scrum-half Mike Phillips, who joins the Ospreys man behind the scrum.

Prop Ceri Jones and lock Scott Morgan are the only uncapped players in the matchday squad, with both named among the replacements.

Flanker Colin Charvis and Gavin Thomas; front rows Adam Jones and Iestyn Thomas, locks Brent Cobain and Rob Sidoli; and number eight Jonathon Thomas make up an experienced starting pack with over 200 caps between them.

Wales head coach Gareth Jenkins described Gareth Thomas' record-breaking achievement as "fantastic".

"Gareth's been a great example for all players and is the epitome of a quality professional," Jenkins said.

"He is a significant selection, his experience and enthusiasm is on display for everyone to see in training and he has a renewed sharpness and edge to his game that can only benefit this Wales team."

Jenkins also said he "wouldn't bet against" Thomas breaking the 100-cap mark at the rugby World Cup this summer, adding that his "inspirational" qualities would benefit the somewhat experimental touring side in Australia.

Full Wales XV to play Australia in first Test:
Lee Byrne, Gareth Thomas (captain), Jamie Robinson, Sonny Parker, Chris Czekaj, James Hook, Mike Phillips; Iestyn Thomas, Matthew Rees, Adam Jones, Brent Cockbain, Rob Sidoli, Colin Charvis, Gavin Thomas, Jonathan Thomas.

Replacements: Richard Hibbard, Ceri Jones, Michael Owen, Scott Morgan, Gareth Cooper, Ceri Sweeney, Gavin Henson.

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