Scrum V Scrum V Top 5: Jonathan Davies
Feb 23, 2026
Jonathan Davies, former Wales centre and British & Irish Lion, brings Scarlets pride and rugby legend stories. He recalls pub roots and the origins of his 'Foxy' nickname. Conversation covers training routines, his signature hand-off, playing with his brother, NFL daydreams, and the coaches and Scarlets icons who shaped him. A warm, nostalgic tour of West Wales rugby culture.
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Gareth Jenkins Made Players Feel Like Family
- Gareth Jenkins built deep community pride at Llanelli by personally connecting with players and treating them like family.
- Jonathan Davies recalls Jenkins greeting him after the 2013 Lions tour, picking him up and hugging him to make him feel valued.
Coaching Success Depends On Reading Players
- Great coaches read people and adapt their approach rather than applying one-size-fits-all methods.
- Davies credits Warren Gatland for managing rest, workload and motivation by tailoring treatment to each player's needs.
Jonathan Davies And Ken Owens Grew Up In The Same Path
- Jonathan Davies and Ken Owens rose through the Scarlets academy together, sharing early morning sessions and first-team debuts.
- Davies recounts meeting Owens at Carmarthen track, joint preseason and Ken packing down against Steve Thompson in his first game.