FIVE Gwent rugby stalwarts are among a new batch of 12 players that will be awarded ‘President’s caps’ by the Welsh Rugby Union.

Last year the governing body recognised 25 players who had represented their country in matches that were not deemed as full internationals at the time.

The fixtures were against opponents who were awarded caps by their respective unions.

Now players who featured against Canada and the USA on tour in 1980 and the Canadians in Wales in 1971 will be honoured at a special presentation during tomorrow’s Test against Fiji at the Millennium Stadium.

Ebbw Vale centre Alan Tovey and Pontypool full-back Robin Williams played against the Cannucks in at Cardiff Arms Park along with Neath’s Norman Rees, Martin Davies and Barrie Davies.

Newbridge prop Mike Dowling played in the 24-18 win against the USA in 1980 along with Cardiff’s Chris Webber and David Thomas and Bridgend’s Steve Ellis.

And hooker Steve Jones and back row forward Gareth Jones of Pontypool, plus Llanelli’s Geraint Bowen, took to the field in the 24-7 victory against Canada later that month.

The players will be presented with their caps before kick-off while Steve ‘Junna’ Jones, Martin Davies and Barrie Davies, who have passed away, will be represented by their families.

"It is with great pleasure that we will be awarding President's caps to these 12 individuals who represented Wales in matches against Canada and the USA,” said WRU president Dennis Gethin.

"It is a great honour to represent your country and I hope the players and their families will take great pride in the recognition they have now received for the service they have provided to our national game.

"I am delighted that the contribution of these players to Welsh international rugby is now recorded in this way,”

President's Cap records are held separately so as not to cause a knock on effect in the history books and alter cap numbers of players who have since represented Wales, or individuals who played in these games but also went on to be awarded full honours.