Davies called up by Wales

Wales have called up unattached forward Geraint Davies as the replacement for Gareth Thomas in their 24-man squad for the Gillette Four Nations Series.

Davies, 25, who won the first of his seven caps against England in 2008, is currently without a club after completing a 12-month contract with Limoux in June but played in Wales' warm-up match against Ireland in Neath last Saturday.

Llanelli-born Davies, who helped the Grizzlies reach the French Grand Final, started his professional rugby league career with Celtic Crusaders, scoring seven tries in 47 appearances, and also played for South Wales Scorpions in 2010.

"I'm honoured more than anything," said Davies, who takes the place of Thomas after he announced his retirement.

"I was disappointed to have missed out in the first place but Iestyn (Harris) made that call and he told me to go away and work on my game. The call came a lot sooner than I thought.

"I would like to congratulate Gareth Thomas in his career. He's someone I've looked up to since I was young and he'll go down as one of the greatest rugby players in Wales.

"I feel that I can bring passion to the team. I'm a very passionate Welshman. I thought I gave a good account of myself against Ireland at the weekend.

"I know it'll be difficult to get in this team but whether I get in or not, I'll be supporting the boys and supporting Wales."

Wales coach Iestyn Harris said: "We're really pleased that Geraint Davies is now officially in the 24-man Wales squad.

"He is full of enthusiasm for Wales rugby league. He was our first reserve in case anyone did drop out and he played well in the friendly against Ireland last Saturday."