Gareth Jenkins says his first Wales squad has a 'hard core'

With 20 senior players either injured or rested, the average age of Jenkins' first Wales squad selection is just 24.

"You never pick a side to lose and this young team we've chosen has a hard core to it," Jenkins said.

"It is an opportunity for young players but we've got a serious edge to it - we believe and we're confident that we can be really competitive this summer."

Ospreys prop Duncan Jones has been handed the captain's armband for this tour, as Jenkins considers who will take on the role full-time.

Jones leads Wales against Pumas

Gareth Thomas started last season as skipper, with Michael Owen taking over when the Toulouse wing was injured.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for Duncan and the appointment will give me the chance to see how he handles the responsibility as a potential captain of the future," Jenkins added.

The name of 33-year-old back-row Colin Charvis, who has won 84 caps, was nowhere to be seen in the squad or among the list of injured players, those undergoing rehabilitation or simply being rested.

Other big-name players not on the list included Gloucester's Grand Slam-winning hooker Mefin Davies, 33, and Llanelli Scarlets captain Dafydd James, 30.

But Jenkins insisted this trio still have an international future and there was no agenda behind the lack of a mention.

"I have spoken to Colin, Dafydd and Mefin and these players we know plenty about," Jenkins said.

"We know them inside-out and they have an opportunity to rest and recharge themselves."

Wales play Argentina in Puerto Madryn on Sunday 11 June and Buenos Aires the following Saturday.

There is a group who are simply in need of rest Wales coach Gareth Jenkins

"There is no doubt that this summer tour is key to our World Cup aspirations," Jenkins said,

"I have looked at the period leading up to the 2007 World Cup, which includes 16 international matches and I have sought expert opinions and advice from medical staff and conditioning coaches.

"Certain players have not been considered because they are undergoing a period of rehabilitation following injury or operations.

"Others have injuries that need further investigation and possible surgery over the summer.

"There is also a group who are simply in need of rest and a structured conditioning programme leading into a prolonged pre-season.

"That process is key if we are to get to September and October with a healthy squad of players who are repaired, re-energised, conditioned and producing performances that they weren't able to last season."