Davies Named As Llanelli Skipper

International centre Leigh Davies has been named as Llanelli skipper in succession to No.8 Scott Quinnell.
The 26-year-old who has won 20 caps for his country, the last coming against Ireland in October 2001, was given the job after Quinnell decided to step down from his role with the Heineken Cup semi-finalists to concentrate on his role as Wales skipper.

Davies will have an early chance to hone his leadership skills when he leads the Scarlets on their upcoming pre-season tour of Slovenia, but has already been a vocal member of the team as a key playmaker in the backline.

Director of rugby Gareth Jenkins said: "Leigh is a key decision-maker in the back line and has proved himself to be a responsible and reliable player, with all the attributes of a top-class rugby professional."

Davies joined Llanelli from Bristol in 2000, having already served stints with Neath and Cardiff and making his international debut as a teenager in 1996.

Meanwhile, second row Vernon Cooper has been named as Davies' right-hand man, replacing Stephen Jones as vice-captain.

Llanelli are off to Eastern Europe for the second pre-season tour as part of their 'Outreach' programme.

Davies added: "Our trip to Hungary really helped to kick-start the season last summer and we are hoping Slovenia can give us the same preparation.

"But the trip is also about spreading the gospel of rugby in Eastern Europe, part of an outreach programme we've been running for a number of years now."