BBC Rugby Union: Plumtree Qualifies for Wales After Swansea Birthplace
Swansea-born Ethan Plumtree has qualified to represent the Wales national rugby union team, following in the footsteps of his father John Plumtree, who previously coached the team. The younger Plumtree’s rugby journey has taken him across the globe, from New Zealand to South Africa and Ireland, before ultimately returning to Wales.
Plumtree’s father, John, is currently the head coach of the South African United Rugby Championship (URC) side Sharks, and recently masterminded their Challenge Cup final success, where they defeated Gloucester at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Interestingly, eight of Plumtree senior’s squad members are also involved in South Africa’s matchday 23 against Wales.
“I went to stay with them in London before the Challenge Cup final,” Ethan Plumtree recalled. “It was cool because I would go down to breakfast and the players would come up and shake my hand and give my mum a hug. I got to know a few of the boys. Phepsi Buthelezi is a good man, and Aphelele Fassi is starting at full-back, and it will be good to see him out there.”
Growing up in a coaching family, Plumtree has experienced the diversity of rugby cultures, from the physical mindset of the Springboks to the relentless running of the All Blacks and the “hearty” style of Welsh rugby. “If I could have some of all three in my bag, that wouldn’t be a bad thing,” he remarked.
As Plumtree prepares to don the famous red jersey of Wales, his unique background and global rugby experiences will undoubtedly contribute to his development as an international player.
🔗 Source
