Bevan happy with his baptism of fire

So much has happened in the life of Ellis Bevan over the last six months but one moment stands out above all others.

- SIMON THOMAS

That came after he made his Wales debut against South Africa at Twickenham in June.

"When we got back into the changing room, the cap got presented to me by Warren Gatland," reveals the Cardiff scrum-half.

"That was quite special because I had grown up watching Gatland's Wales as a youngster.

"But the big moment was when I spoke a few words and thanked my family and mentioned my mum who sadly passed away when I was eight.

"That was probably the bit that hit home. Those things do shape your life.

It was good to have a moment to say how hopefully she was proud of me.

"It was just a nice way to top off the day to mention those close ones and those who supported me.

My dad's been awesome." It's through his father Mark, who hails from Sketty near Swansea, that the Midlands-born Bevan qualifies for Wales. Growing up in Solihull, he was very much aware of his roots.