Danny Wilson was delighted to see Cardiff Blues' set-piece prowess rewarded with international recognition.
Eight players from the region were today included in Rob Howley’s squad for the autumn internationals, including four front-row forwards.
Loose-head props Gethin Jenkins and Rhys Gill, tight-head Scott Andrews and hooker Kristian Dacey were all named in the 36-man party and Wilson reckons that is testament to the strength of the region’s set-piece.
He said: “We have seen four front-row forwards selected for Wales – Rhys Gill, Kristian Dacey, Gethin Jenkins and Scott Andrews. I’m thrilled for those guys and it’s a huge part of what we want to do here.
“If boys can play well in big games in front of selectors then that bodes well for our environment – players will see that if they come here, play well and improve individual parts of their game that they can kick on and get international honours.
“Obviously Gethin’s selection speaks for itself and Dacey to an extent but I’m pleased for Scott Andrews and Rhys Gill that they have worked their way back in with some really good performances.”
Sam Warburton, Lloyd Williams, Gareth Anscombe and Alex Cuthbert were the other players selected with several Cardiff Blues stars narrowly missing out.
Top scorer Tom James was perhaps the most unfortunate and Wilson has paid particular praise to both Cuthbert and his wing partner.
Wilson continued: “To have eight in the squad is fantastic – we want to have more in there and there’s one or two who have narrowly missed out and will be really keen to prove themselves in the coming weeks in case of injuries.
“When Alex has played for us, he’s played really well. He hasn’t played that many because of injuries but against Bristol his work-rate shone through.
“He is a favourite there if he is on form, he is tried and tested and deserves to be in there. I have been really impressed with Alex and likewise Tom.
“He is a huge attacking presence for us, scores plenty of tires for us, is our top try-scorer and has gone really well.
“He probably feels unlucky but I’m sure there are reasons and things for him to work on and from our perspective I’m really pleased with his form for the Blues.”