Scarlet Dafydd: I’m same man who won Slam

Mar 29 2008 by Delme Parfitt, South Wales Echo

SCARLETS back row man Dafydd Jones says he is still the same player who was a first choice in the Wales Grand Slam side of 2005.

The 29-times capped Stradey man is playing a key role as his region chase Magners League silverware with a clash against Leinster at home tonight (5.30).

And Jones wants to make a point in front of the cameras that might see him considered to represent his country again.

“I’ve got huge ambitions to play for Wales again,” said Jones, who played in the 11-9 success against England in 2005 only to miss the rest of that campaign with injury. I feel good, I’m happy with myself and I’m enjoying my rugby.

“It was great watching the boys win the Grand Slam. Knowing what it’s like to be in the squad, I couldn’t be happier for them.

“Everyone has put loads of work in and they got what they deserved.

“After a disappointing World Cup it’s nice to see them come back and achieve greatness again.”

The Scarlets are still without captain Simon Easterby with the Irishman suffering knee trouble. And Bruce Douglas comes in at tight-head.

Llanelli Scarlets (v Leinster, h): M Stoddart; D James, R King, G Evans, M Jones; S Jones, D Peel (c); P John, M Schwalger, B Douglas; L Reed, S MacLeod; D Jones, G Thomas, A Popham. Reps: B Broster, M Rees, A Eustace, N Thomas, G Cattle, C Thomas, M Watkins.

Leinster: R Kearney; S Horgan, M Berne, F Contepomi, L Fitzgerald; J Sexton, C Whitaker; O Le Roux, B Jackman, S Wright; L Cullen (c), M O’Kelly; S Keogh, S Jennings, J Heaslip. Reps: B Blaney, C Healy/SKnoop, T Horgan, C Jowitt/K Gleeson, C Keane, C Warner, G Dempsey.