The three-time Six Nations winner was full of praise for his brother James, who took the decision to retire from rugby last week due to concussion issues which have plagued him since November 2020. Davies insists it was an honour to take the field with his brother for both club and country, but believes it was the right decision to call it a day for the sake of his health.
“Some of my proudest moments have come on the field with him, I am going to miss that,” said the Scarlets captain. “It was a realisation after the game Saturday that I’m not going to be able to experience that again.
“Realising how fortunate we are and not taking these things for granted, it’s the cruel side of rugby these injuries. I’m just glad he’s in a position now where he can lead a quality of life.
“As a family we’re extremely proud of him, it wouldn’t have been an easy decision for him and we’re going to be there for him as best we can. One thing we always had for each other was a high standard.
“We didn’t need to say much but we expected the best. What he has was the ability to turn up on a Saturday and give it his absolute all. He set a standard for us as a squad, and we need to all hold ourselves accountable to that, because he was a big part of this squad.”
Those standards are going to be vital for Jonathan and his Scarlets team as they battle for a place in the United Rugby Championship play-offs, and qualification for next seasons Heineken Champions Cup. Scarlets head to Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday afternoon, hoping to back up last Saturday’s victory over Cardiff Rugby.
But Davies admitted this would be a different challenge away from home. “It was a good result at the weekend but what’s been great this week is a real focus to back that up and get another good performance,” he said.
“We realise the importance of these derbies, and we’re going to need a full tank again this weekend. Their home record is outstanding and they play with real confidence there.
“So, we understand what’s going to be asked of us but that’s the challenge that lies ahead. We’re excited about going up there and taking on a good Cardiff team.”
