Deaves' fairytale story is inspirational, says Tandy

THE fairytale rise of flanker Harri Deaves from roofer to international rugby player will inspire a generation, says Wales head coach Steve Tandy.

- PHIL BLANCHE Press Association

Deaves (pictured) worked as a roofer during his early days at Ospreys when trying to forge a career in professional rugby.

Many observers considered the 24-year-old from Pontyclun too small to make it in an era filled with giants, but Deaves has proven those doubters wrong since the days he drove his van to Ospreys training sessions.

Deaves would leave the training ground to spend afternoons working on roofs until his breakthrough came at the Swansea-based region.

"He adds something to the group and you could see what it meant to the team when he was announced," Tandy said.

"What a story to go up against the All Blacks. Historically, what a team, and at home.

"It's going to be an amazing day for him, his family and the community.