Jenkins is a strong contender to pull on the British & Irish Lions jersey in the opening Test against the Kiwis in Christchurch on June 25th. In fact, after proving himself as one of Europe’s top loose-heads this season, the Wales prop is widely seen as one of the odds-on favourites for a place in the Test side.
Although that form has left a few All Blacks clearly concerned about his potential threat, it hasn’t stopped Hansen from passing on his best wishes. The pair became close allies during Hansen’s reign in Wales and the two have remained in touch ever since Hansen’s decision to leave Wales and return home.
Jenkins said: “I had a text from Steve as soon as I got here. In some ways I wasn’t that surprised because we got on so well and he worked hard with me during his time in charge of Wales. Having said that, it was a little strange to pick up your phone and find a good luck message from the opposition coach. It just shows that he doesn’t forget. It will be good to meet up with him later in the tour.”
Jenkins won his first cap against Romania in 2002 but really sprung to the fore on the following summer’s tour to South Africa where Hansen blooded a host of new faces. Jenkins, however, understands the enormity of the challenge that lies ahead, both for himself and the Lions as a squad.
“Their front five are always strong and powerful and I expect that to be the case over the next six weeks,” he said. “The basics are the key to all Test matches, so we need to get on top in that area. If I can help us to achieve that, it will be another great feeling. Just being here is fantastic, but if I can play and play well, it would be awesome.”
