George North says he’ll remember Saturday for the rest of his life as he prepares for his 100th cap in Wales’ home game with England.
North will line up an outside centre in the crucial Round 3 clash and become the youngest player to make 100 appearances for their country, beating Australia’s Michael Hooper by four weeks.
North made his debut against South Africa in 2010, scoring two tries while just 18 years old. He has gone on to win three Guinness Six Nations titles, including Grand Slams in 2012 and 2019.
Where to watch Round 3 of the Guinness Six Nations
He also starred on the 2013 Lions Tour, scoring two tries in the 2-1 series win in Australia.
“I never thought I would even get one cap for Wales, let alone 100,” North said.
“It has been a long road – a load of ups and downs – but it has been worth every single second. I never thought I would get here, so I am really chuffed.
“When you are in the pressure pot, the mixer, you don’t really have much time (to think about records), you are on to the next job or the next fixture. They come thick and fast.
“I am sure there will be a time when I am sat there with a coffee telling Jac (his son) that I used to play rugby once and I was half-decent, but he will probably laugh it off!
“To be able to say I played for Wales is incredible, but to say I was in a very rare club of 100 caps is very special.”
North will become Wales’ sixth Test match centurion, following in the footsteps of current captain Alun Wyn Jones, Gethin Jenkins, Stephen Jones, Gareth Thomas and Martyn Williams.
Alun Wyn Jones holds the current world record for number of Test matches, 154 and counting, and North could go close to challenging that if he remains fit.
Wales head coach Wayne Pivac said: “He is still highly-motivated and wants to play for Wales well past 100 games.
“I am sure he is going to do that with the attitude he is showing at the moment and the form he will bring to the 13 jersey.”
