For most players, the opportunity to represent their university in BUCS Super Rugby would be a standout moment in their season. For EURFC second row and first year student Dafydd Jenkins though, that feeling is likely to be topped tomorrow afternoon, after he was named on the bench for Exeter Chiefs, as they take on Glasgow Warriors in the Heineken Champions Cup.

“I found out that there was a chance I might be selected earlier in the week,” Jenkins beamed. “But it was only really during the Wednesday training session that I knew for sure.”

6ft 6 Jenkins has been pulling up metaphorical trees all season for EURFC in BUCS Super Rugby, with the Welsh Under 20s international seeing his performances rewarded with two appearances for the Chiefs in the Premiership Cup.

The talented second row has been a key cog in the engine room for the university so far this season, appearing in 10 BUCS Super Rugby fixtures. Now though, he has a chance to showcase his ability on the biggest stage of all.

“It’s all happened so fast,” he exclaims. “I’m really excited for the match day and hopefully I can get on and contribute to a win.”

Jenkins’ inclusion in the matchday side, alongside club alumni Jack and Sam Maunder, and Sam Skinner, highlights the strength of the EURFC programme in developing players to compete at the top level of the game. With current student Christ Tshiunza making his international debut for Wales in November, and a host of EURFC players representing the Chiefs in recent Premiership Cup clashes, the university programme is currently in rude health.

“I couldn’t be prouder of Dafydd,” explains Director of Rugby Keith Fleming. “He’s a great lad and a proper, hard rugby player. If you look at his performances so far this season both for the university and in the Premiership Cup, he’s already shown how good a player he is. But also, he’s shown as his potential to keep improving himself which is crucial.”

Jenkins also credits the university pathway for his meteoric ascent. And, whilst understandably thrilled to be involved with the Chiefs, he admitted he still has one eye on BUCS Super Rugby glory come the end of the season.

“Uni rugby has been really important in my development. The standard is really good, and the boys are really great players to play with. Hopefully looking forward with BUCS Super Rugby, we can win the championship come the end of the season.”

All at EURFC wish Jenkins and Exeter Chiefs the very best of luck tomorrow afternoon against Glasgow Warriors, as they look to keep themselves in contention for European honours.