Gatland’s picked ‘perfect role model’

Wales summer squad

CORY Hill is the perfect player to guide Wales’ youngsters on their summer tour says the man who gave him the reins at regional level.

The Dragons lock has been named as co-captain alongside Cardiff Blues flanker Ellis Jenkins by head coach Warren Gatland, who described Hill as Welsh rugby’s most improved player last week.

Wales face South Africa in Washington before two Tests with Argentina and Hill has been tipped to excel in his new role as skipper.

“Cory has been a tremendous captain for me and I’m confident he’ll do the same with Wales,” Dragons boss Bernard Jackman told TRP.

“He’s not the type who screams at his players for the sake of it. He’s very good at sensing the mood of the squad and he leads very much by his personality.

“And he is the perfect role model – after being released by Cardiff Blues he didn’t sulk, he just got on with things and showed a lot of courage to get where he is now.”

Hill will be joined on tour by fellow Dragon Hallam Amos who has racked up the miles having also represented Wales 7s at the Commonwealth Games.

Amos has played the vast majority of his rugby on the wing, but Gatland has hinted he will be used at full-back.

Jackman added: “Hallam’s best position is full-back. He is a very good winger, but you want your best players to touch the ball as much as they can and this tour is a big opportunity for him.

“It could be a turning point in his international career because he’s got all the attributes to be a top international 15.”

STEFFAN THOMAS