Ben James Dafydd Jenkins on Time Out: Making the Most of Injury to Return Fitter and Smarter

Strategic Insights -

Ben James Dafydd Jenkins, the 21-year-old Exeter second-row, has revealed that his time on the sidelines has been a transformative experience. The rugby player, who captained Wales in the Six Nations earlier this year, is currently working his way back to fitness after undergoing knee and shoulder surgery following Wales' summer tour of Australia. Jenkins confirmed he would miss Wales' autumn campaign, including the November clashes with Fiji, Australia, and South Africa, but has been using his time to focus on his physical and mental recovery.

Key Takeaways:

  • Jenkins will miss Wales' autumn campaign due to injury, including the November clashes with Fiji, Australia, and South Africa.
  • The 21-year-old Exeter second-row is targeting a return for his club's Champions Cup clash with Toulouse on December 15.
  • Jenkins believes his time on the sidelines has been beneficial for his physical and mental recovery, citing the opportunity to gym more and reflect on his gameplay.
  • Jenkins aims to put on three or four kilograms of muscle, reaching a target weight of 124kg, and believes the break has made him more hungry for the game than he has ever been.
  • The young lock has been studying the game from afar, watching Wales and Exeter games, and has been picking the brains of teammates, including Henry Slade.
  • Jenkins is currently working on his sports science degree at Exeter University and is determined to pass his final year despite being behind due to his rugby commitments.

Statistics:

  • Jenkins has 19 caps for Wales.
  • He hopes to reach a target weight of 124kg.
  • Exeter's Champions Cup clash with Toulouse is scheduled for December 15.
  • Wales has two upcoming November matches with Fiji, Australia, and South Africa.
  • Jenkins was 8 years old when he joined Exeter's academy program.

Sources:

  • [Inside Welsh rugby newsletter]
  • [BBC Sport]