Hewitt finds a big fan in new Wales coach Gatland after starring role against Quins

Jan 14 2008 South Wales Echo

IT HAS been quite a weekend for Cardiff Blues centre Dafydd Hewitt.

Not only did he justify his first Heineken Cup start with a try-scoring display against Harlequins in the 23-12 victory on Friday night which helped the region put themselves in pole position for quarter-final qualification.

But also new Wales coach Warren Gatland has now joined his growing band of admirers after Hewitt's impressive display.

“I was really impressed with Dafydd Hewitt,” said Gatland.

“I am not saying he will be named in the Wales squad but it was good seeing a young Welsh player getting an opportunity and taking it."

Hewitt had been given the opportunity ahead of Jamie Robinson who was only named as a replacement against Harlequins after suffering from flu.

With Australian Marc Stcherbina out with a long-term shoulder problem, Hewitt is the only genuine inside centre in the Blues squad and showed his talents against the Quins.

"I am really happy and I don't think things could have gone any better this season," said Hewitt.

"Jamie and Tom are both outside-centres and maybe I am seen as more of a natural inside centre.

"But playing with them is awesome and I find it easier to play alongside people like Tom and Jamie because they make the game easier."

Blues coaches Dai Young and Rob Howley now have to decide whether to reward Hewitt by keeping him in the starting line-up in the must-win clash against Bristol at the Memorial Stadium next Sunday, or opt for the experience of Robinson alongside Shanklin.