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Tributes have been paid to former Wales rugby captain Mike ‘Spike’ Watkins, who has passed away aged 73.

Watkins, who was born in Abercarn, played as a hooker and represented his country four times in 1984 at the age of 32.

He made his debut as captain in an 18-9 victory over Ireland in Dublin, before skippering the side that beat England 24-15 at Twickenham in his second match.

Watkins later led Wales out in games against France and Australia before retiring from international rugby.

He had been an unused replacement 17 times for Wales prior to his debut, largely due to the presence of Pontypool hooker Bobby Windsor, but made numerous appearances for Wales B.

At club level, he represented Crumlin, Cardiff, and Newport before retiring in 1987.

He passed away in Bangkok, Thailand, where he had been living with his wife, Maew.

Paying tribute to a “true man of Gwent”, Dragons RFC described Watkins as “uncompromising and a leader on the field, hugely popular character off it.”

Former Newport RFC player-turned-commentator Phil Steele described Watkins as a “lion-hearted player and great character” and called him “the best captain I ever played under”.

He added: “The type of bloke I thought would live forever.”