The 22-year-old was named captain of Wales’ 30-man squad for the tournament in New Zealand today and the openside flanker, who led Wales Under 20’s in the inaugural Junior World Cup in 2008 spoke of his joy at the announcement.
“I’m absolutely delighted,” he said.
“I have really enjoyed the experience of the last few games as captain and I’m really excited at what lies ahead.
“It was something which I never thought would happen in my career and to captain your country at a World Cup is one of the greatest achievements a rugby player can achieve.
“It’s my first World Cup so things are going to be new to me but we are heading there full of confidence.
“Its going to be important to stay fit, both physically and mentally but the squad of players really enjoy each others company and it’s a positive camp to be around and we are in a good place at the moment.
“When I’m captain I don’t really change much from what I always do, I’m a pretty relaxed guy and there are plenty of guys who have World Cup experience and they will help during the campaign.”