When did you take up rugby?
When I was seven, playing touch, and ever since then I have played week in week out. I started with Llanelli Wanderers and stayed there until U12.

Have you played other positions?
I started as a second row because I was taller than a lot of kids. As rugby started to get more serious I moved to No 6. I don’t mind playing No 8 or openside if I have to.

Did you play other sports?
I used to do judo competitively. My sister Amber represented Wales. We used to go to Welsh Opens together but rugby took over when I was about 14.

Who have been your mentors?
My dad Myrddin is a massive rugby fan and from when I was a young age he identified it was a career path and pushed me to be my best.

When did you join the Scarlets?
I signed for the Academy when I was 16 and played for Coleg Sir Gar from 16 to 18. I played for Wales U16 and captained Wales U18.

Are you enjoying senior rugby?
It has been a really good experience. Playing the higher level is really good for my development as a player.

How do you feel about being Wales U20 captain?
Really honoured. When I was younger this was a milestone I wanted to achieve. When you are working hard, it is for days like these.

What are your aims now?
To stay injury free and put in really good performances through the 2016 Six Nations and Junior World Cup.

RW Verdict: Phillips made seven appearances for Wales U20 last season and racked up more caps – and wins – as skipper this spring, when he led Wales U20 to a Grand Slam. Five outings for the Scarlets before he turned 20 last month show he is highly regarded.

First published in the April 2016 edition of Rugby World magazine.