Tom Shanklin

By Paul French
August 26 2004

Home > Wales Section > Profiles > Tom Shanklin


	Position:	Centre / Winger
	Region:	Cardiff Blues
	Birthplace:	Harrow, England
	Date of Birth:	24.11.1979
	Height:	6ft 2ins
	Weight:	15st 0lbs
	Caps:	24

Son of international Jim, "Shanks" has developed into a player who is there or there abouts in the Welsh three quarter line. Unfortunately for him his utility to play anywhere from 11-14 has stopped from holding down a regular spot under Steve Hansen, although as the 2004 six nations ended, he was seriously pushing Iestyn Harris for the inside centre spot.

Relatively unknown before making his debut on the development tour to Japan in 2001, Harrow born Shanklin has proved to be one of the best kept secrets of the Welsh exile system. In the summer of 2003 Shanklin ended a long spell with Saracens to move to Cardiff, where he has made a considerable impact.

This season should see Shanks shake off his "super sub" tag after impressing new coach Mike Ruddock on tour.