Wales
Dewi Lake
Gatland, who has coached Lake with the Welsh national team, spoke highly of the hooker’s potential and leadership:
“I know he is a player that Andy would love. He is tough and incredibly competitive, wants to do well and is a quality man. Andy would love his personality and attributes. He is a big man, with a physical edge, aggression and athleticism and can develop into a world-class hooker. But even at 25 he is showing exceptional leadership skills and is one of the players I am looking to build my squad around, and for him to drive standards and expectations as well.”
At 25, Lake has not only impressed with his aggressive play but also with his leadership qualities, making him a cornerstone for the future of Welsh rugby.
Dafydd Jenkins
Though currently sidelined with injury, Jenkins has already left a strong impression on Gatland:
Daf is cut from the same cloth as Dewi. Unfortunately, he is injured at the moment but should be back around Christmas time. When he was on tour with us in Australia he had a knee that kept dislocating and a rotator cuff injury but he never complained and got on with it.”
At 21, Jenkins has shown great resilience and determination, traits that Gatland values highly, and his return to fitness will be eagerly anticipated by Welsh fans.
