North makes history with 100th cap but has to put grief aside
GEORGE NORTH will lead Wales out on his 100th cap against England today.
But his record-breaking milestone has been put into perspective by the death of a member of his boyhood club.
North will bring up a century ofWales appearances as his team look to seal a Triple Crown at the Principality Stadium and stay on course for Grand Slam glory.
He played youth rugby at Llangefni in Anglesey growing up and the north Wales side last week lost amateur player Huw Gethin Jones, right, who died from Covid complications aged 34.
“It’s heartbreaking and I was really super sad to hear of his passing,” said North.
“It has been tough on the community and tough on the club.
“It has been great to see the club and community rallying around Huw’s family. I know there is a GoFundMe page and I’m hoping to get a few bits signed by the squad to help out. It’s so sad.”
North has come a long way since those days on Anglesey.
He has been one of world rugby’s biggest stars for the past decade since his scintillating two-try Wales debut as an 18-year-old against South Africa in 2010. Still only 28, North will make rugby history today when he overtakes Australian captain Michael Hooper as the youngest player to appear 100 times for their country.
“To be able to say I played for Wales was incredible, but to say I was in a very rare club of 100 caps is very special,” said North, who has been in fine form for the past three months.
“I remember my first game. It was probably one
of my fondest memories. I was fortunate enough to play with some of my heroes I grew up watching. I have got a better haircut now!
“I never thought I would even get one cap, let alone 100.
“It has been a long road – ups and downs – but it has been worth every single second.”
North has been revitalised by his move from wing to centre with Wales and he partners the experienced Jonathan Davies in midfield against England today.
Wales head coachWayne Pivac also has Josh Navidi and Josh Adams returning to the fray and there is a new-found confidence to the Dragons after back-toback wins.
Still, they will have to improve on their displays in their victories over 14-man Ireland and Scotland if they are to trouble Eddie Jones’ men.
Wales’ rookie scrum-half Kieran Hardy faces a big game on what will be just his fourth cap. “We’re going all right... there is plenty to work on and I’m sure everyone will have their own opinion,” said North.
“At the end of the day we’re in a results business and it’s better to be two from two than nought from two.
“There has been a lot of hard work and I’m hoping come Saturday all the hard work will come to fruition and we’ll get the result we want. It’s certainly going to be a decent game.”