‘I could never have dreamt of it, to be honest’ – Leigh Halfpenny
Veteran full-back Leigh Halfpenny marked his 100th appearance for Wales with a victory over England in the Rugby World Cup warm-ups on Saturday.
The experienced outside back has described joining the 100-cap club as “surreal” and added that it was a special day for him and his family.
He became just the ninth Welshman to reach the landmark figure, joining Alun Wyn Jones, Gethin Jenkins, George North, Dan Biggar, Stephen Jones, Gareth Thomas, Taulupe Faletau and Martyn Williams.
A special day for the Halfpennys
The 34-year-old now sets his sights on a possible third Rugby World Cup for his country following a testing period in his career when injuries provided repeated setbacks.
“It was a pretty special day for myself and my family,” Halfpenny said after the victory over England.
“There are too many to mention, but it wouldn’t have been possible without so many people supporting me throughout my career.
“I could never have dreamt of it, to be honest. Winning one cap for Wales was a dream come true, and this is surreal. It hasn’t really sunk in yet.
“My huge thanks to all the players, staff and management who made it so special.
“Players, teammates and medical staff have helped me come back from injury. They have all been superb, and it is the same with my family and friends.
“Jess, my fiancee, and my two girls – they’ve been my rock, to be honest. They have kept me going, and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped me achieve this.”
Would love to carry on playing
Halfpenny earned his first Test cap for Wales as a teenager, debuting against South Africa in 2008.
While he started his career on the wing, by 2011, he was a regular starter at full-back, and he has made a considerable contribution on the Test match scene.
He has scored 795 points for Wales in his 100 Tests; only Neil Jenkins and Jones have scored more for Wales.
“There have certainly been some ups and downs along the way,” he added.
“With injury, there have been some really tough moments, times when you weren’t too sure whether you would get back on the field and play for Wales again.
“Obviously, I would love to carry on playing. You never know when your last game could be, but certainly, the ambition is to keep going.
“You never take it for granted. Of course, I would love to go to the World Cup in France, but there is so much competition in the squad and in the back-three positions.”
Song choice
Meanwhile, Halfpenny went back to his roots for the traditional post-match song he had to perform in front of Wales teammates during his 100th cap presentation.
“It was a song called Silver Dollar. We sang it in Gorseinon Rugby Club (where Halfpenny played age-grade rugby),” he added.
“It’s a favourite among my friends and the rugby club, so it’s a song close to my heart.
“It felt right to sing that. It was quite a full changing room, so there were a few nerves.”
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