With a bumper crowd in attendance, the Paul James Select XV defeated the Classic Lions 50-46 in an enthralling contest. Former loose-head prop James, who won 66 caps for Wales and represented both the Ospreys and Bath, has been celebrating his testimonial this season.
And an all-star cast turned up including Dafydd James, Shane Williams, Allan Bateman, Chris Wyatt, Jonathan Thomas and Lee Byrne.
Former England internationals Delon Armitage and Lee Mears also took part. And it was an enthralling end-to-end encounter played over four 20 minute halves with the lead changing hands on several occasions.
There were 16 tries in total with arguably the try of the afternoon set-up by Wales legend Williams who turned back the clock by dancing past three defenders before putting Byrne over. The Classic Lions held a 24-19 lead at the interval, but James’ troops rallied to make an impressive comeback to seal the victory.
Despite there being a few sore bodies out there afterwards the players were delighted to have taken part in such an entertaining spectacle. “I played with Paul from age grade level all the way through to the Ospreys and even with Wales,” said former Wales flanker Thomas.
“He was a fantastic player and a fantastic bloke and it was honour to play here today. The lungs are burning a bit as it’s been four years since I finished playing, but I loved it.
“As a player Paul was the sort of player you’d want standing next to you when the chips were down and he’d do anything for any of his team-mates.”
Wales and British & Irish Lions legend JPR Williams echoed Thomas’ statement. “This really was a fantastic occasion,” said Williams.
“This reminded me of my own playing days playing in front of a huge crowd. The players enjoyed the occasion as did all the supporters.
“Paul has been a fantastic servant for Welsh rugby and it was great to do this for him.”
