Alfie Favourite For Welsh Captaincy

By Zippy
September 23 2004

Former Celtic Warriors captain Gareth "Alfie" Thomas is in line to become the new Wales captain. For the full story and reaction read on

Leading Welsh bookmaker Jack Brown has opened the book on who will lead Wales this Autumn, here it is:

Gareth Thomas 4/5

Colin Charvis 7/4

Jonathan Thomas 7/2

Martyn Williams 5/1

Stephen Jones 5/1

It would cap a remarkable few years for Gareth Thomas if he were to be made Welsh Captain, he lead Bridgend to the league championship and was then made captain of the Celtic Warriors and led them to a famous win at Wasps who went on to win the European Cup. In the past 6 Nations he took over Ieuan Evans try scoring record for Wales, then he signed for the "Real Madrid" of rugby - European giants Toulouse.

Alfie has always had the talent to be in the Welsh side but in his earlier days was described as a "Maverick" and enjoyed his social life, however he fell foul of a few national coaches despite his fitness levels and performances always being first class.

In the past few seasons Alfie has matured into the most popular player in Wales and has the respect of the Welsh dressing room.

It would be a popular choice but Mike Ruddock was giving nothing away:

He said, "There is a lot of speculation around at the moment regarding the captaincy.

"All I have said is it is a new start, a new season and it's important I make the right decision now regarding not only the selection of the team but the captain."

Of the other choices:

Charvis - Unpopular with union "Big Wigs"

Jonny Thomas - Too young at present

Stephen Jones % Martyn Williams - Not guaranteed starting places

Zippy Reaction

I'd be overjoyed for Alfie if he was made captain, I watched him play for Toulouse last night and he looked class, give him the job Mike. I hope Gareth can also gain that elusive Lions cap that he has deserved throughout his career.