Rhys Williams Bio

A former Welsh international and captain of the Cardiff Blues, Rhys Williams was a giant of Welsh rugby during his playing career, which spanned from 1998 to 2008. Known for his versatility, Rhys Williams played at wing, centre and full-back.

Born 23 February 1980, Rhys Williams (who was actually born as Gethin Rhys Williams) began playing rugby at school. As a versatile back, he quickly gained the attention of selectors and scouts throughout Wales and, by the age of 16, he’d already represented the national team at underage level. In 1999, he even played in the Youth World Cup and helped Wales reach the final, which they unfortunately lost to New Zealand.

Only a year later, Rhys Williams made his first appearance for the national side in the Six Nations Championship. Between 2000 and 2005, he would go on to make 44 appearances for his country, scoring 80 points in the process. During this period, he helped the side claim the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2005.