Gareth Thomas - or "Alfie" - is not just Wales' most-capped player, record try scorer and three-time World Cup veteran.

He is a cult figure and talisman for the side, a leader who commands unswerving loyalty and a powerful force from full-back or wing.

Thomas is often emotional, sometimes controversial and always passionate.

After a stint with Toulouse, he is back at Cardiff Blues and will skipper the Welsh in France.