“It was good to finally make my first appearance for Bath.” begins the Wales U20 international.

“There were a few good things but also a lot to work on, it comes with playing at that intensity. It was surprising, but enjoyable to play with that step up.”

A strong Quins side left the Rec 19-28 winners, but the precious commodity of game time was not lost on Davies, who took the field with some of his peers who have had a taste of first team action already in their young careers like Josh Bayliss, as well as experienced internationals Rhys Priestland, Luke Charteris and Ben Tapuai.

For a Swansea-born Welshman who grew up adoring the game and idolising these players, it was an amazing experience, Rhys says: “It was a bit surreal playing with Charteris and Priestland as a Welsh lad - being on the same pitch as them! I pinched myself in the huddle - it was really good.

“It was a really strong team especially in the back row. Josh is where I want to be this time next year, signing that first team contract. I’m making my way there - that was a big milestone. I now want to kick on and play for both the Bath first team and Wales.”

As for all the young talent in the academy system, versatility is a key facet of the modern game in the second and back rows. Davies says he isn’t fussy where he plays - if the chance comes, he will be ready.

He said: “I like to think of myself as versatile - the second row and back row are getting quite similar - look at Maro Itoje and Nick Isiekwe at Saracens. Playing both is good, but I’ve played second row most of my career. I don’t mind playing six as long as I get through what I need to do and help the team.

“I’ll grab my chance, wherever! You can pick up a position especially when you have players around helping you out like we have here.

“Todd is willing to give us a chance - it doesn’t matter how old you are, if you’re good enough you’ll play. Hopefully I can be the next player off the conveyor belt for Bath!”

Davies looking to be next Bath Academy graduate to make the First Team

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