Jonathan Davies is a Welsh centre and three-time Lions tourist who was named Player of the Series on the victorious 2013 Lions tour of Australia.
Jonathan Davies was born on 5 April 1988 in Solihull, England, and attended Dyffryn Taf Comprehensive in Wales before studying at Trinity College, Carmarthen. He came through the Scarlets academy after junior club rugby with St Clears and Whitland, making his professional debut for Llanelli in 2006 and developing into one of the finest centres of his generation, with younger brother James also becoming a professional flanker for Wales. Davies made his Wales debut against Canada in 2009, and his combination of powerful running, exceptional tackling, and tactical awareness saw him form one of the most feared midfield partnerships in Test rugby alongside Jamie Roberts, central to Wales's Grand Slam triumphs in 2012 and 2019. Nicknamed "Foxy," he captained Wales on four occasions. Davies toured with the British and Irish Lions in both 2013 and 2017, being named Player of the Series on the 2017 tour to New Zealand for his outstanding defensive performances, adding to the acclaim he had already earned in Australia four years earlier. He spent two seasons in France with Clermont Auvergne between spells at the Scarlets, helping the Welsh region win the Pro12 title in 2016-17. Davies retired in 2024 having earned 96 caps for Wales and played in two Rugby World Cups, finishing his 18-year professional career with 209 appearances and 55 tries across two spells at the Scarlets — a career he described as one he remains incredibly proud of as he moved into family life.
Key Wales/Lions centre, Lions Player of the Series 2013
How They Played
Davies was renowned for his exceptional defensive capabilities, aggressive tackling, and ability to read the game. His powerful running style and strong ball-handling skills made him equally effective in attack, while his leadership qualities and tactical awareness were crucial in organizing backline defense.
Lasting Impact
Davies is regarded as one of Wales' greatest centres and helped establish a golden era for Welsh rugby during the 2010s.
Career Honours
- 2013 Lions Player of the Series
- Wales Grand Slam 2012, 2019
- Six Nations titles
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scarlets | 2009–2014 | 77 | 15 | #13 |
| Clermont Auvergne | 2014–2017 | 67 | — | — |
 Wales | — | 101 | — | — |