‘The fact he’s not captain now… he’s been given a simple game plan by Steve Tandy – be physical,’ said Scotland international Jim Hamilton
Dafydd Jenkins was superb against the All Blacks(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd)
Jim Hamilton and Dan Biggar think they have found Wales’ next enforcer who had his “best game in a Welsh shirt” against New Zealand. Exeter Chiefs second row Dafydd Jenkins, who was given an 8/10 by WalesOnline last weekend, has been singled out by the former Test match stars for his showing against the All Blacks.
Wales lost 52-26 against Scott Robertson’s side, but put in a spirited performance with some stunning tries. Tom Rogers bagged an historic hat-trick, Joe Hawkins showed his class in midfield and Keiron Assiratti showed more consistency at tight-head – there were plenty of positives to take.
Lock Jenkins fronted up to the New Zealanders physically, putting in some big hits and completing an impressive 21 tackles with eight carries. It was, of course, his charge down that was the catalyst for Rogers third score.
Hamilton explained: “I think you found two of the big five things, there may be more, but, attack, defence, scrum, lineout – (you found) the energy and the passion. Which has been completely lacking for a number of reasons in Wales.
“To do what they did in that first half against the All Blacks, to score tries, to have a little bit of shape. We talk about Dafydd Jenkins in the green room. The fact he’s not captain now… he’s been given a simple game plan by Steve Tandy – be physical.
Biggar added: “His best game in a Welsh shirt.”
Dafydd Jenkins in action against New Zealand(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd)
Hamilton continued: “Clear as day. What he initially probably got into the Wales squad (for) is to go and bang people. And he was doing that. I imagine that Dewi Lake with his leadership, Plumtree in the back-row, Joe Hawkins – how good was he, by the way?
Biggar replied: “Yeah, he added a little bit more physical presence as well.”
Hamilton continued: “Passing game as well. I don’t know about the individual skillset of these players, but with the passion and energy in the stadium, right there are a few things, I can see it.
“As a rugby fan, a Six Nations fan, to see a few things – passion, energy. A sold -out stadium and some physicality and a bit of see you next Tuesday – loved it.”
Wales face South Africa in their final match of the autumn internationals this weekend. Both sides will be significantly weakened because the game falls outside of World Rugby’s official international window.
Therefore, Jenkins will not be available to Wales as he plays his rugby for Chiefs in the Gallagher PREM. Wales’ remaining locks are Ben Carter, Rhys Davies, James Fender and James Ratti (who also plays back-row).
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