He will be assisted by Ospreys fly-half Matthew Jarvis, who has taken on the vice-captain’s role.

And Davies is in no doubt his experienced side, which features only four uncapped players, will give the duo their full support.

“The players selected the leaders in the squad,” said Davies. “Dan is a natural captain and commands the respect of his peers.

“He and Matthew will lead the side for the first two games of the campaign, with Rhys Williams, Josh Navidi, James King, James Thomas, Rhys Downes and Kristian Phillips the other members of the leadership group.

“England is a tough challenge for the opening weekend of games. They are a tremendous side full of Guinness Premiership talent, but it’s a challenge I believe our players will be ready for.

“I’m looking forward to seeing them perform as a unit.”

Wales Under-20 team v England (Friday February 5, Kingsholm, Gloucester):
Dan Fish (Blues); James Loxton (Blues), Owen Williams (Blues), Scott Williams (Scarlets), Kristian Phillips (Ospreys); Matthew Jarvis (Ospreys), Rhys Downes (Blues); Dan Watchurst (capt, Dragons), Rhys Williams (Blues), Simon Gardiner (Scarlets), Macauley Cook (Blues), James King (Ospreys), James Thomas (Dragons), Josh Navidi (Blues), Morgan Allen (Pontypool)
Replacements: Trystan Davies (Scarlets), Ieuan Davies (Glamorgan Wanderers), Lloyd Peers (Ospreys), Toby Faletau (Dragons), Gareth Davies (Scarlets), Lee Rees (Scarlets), Matthew Pewtner (Dragons). Travelling reserve: Rhodri Jones (Scarlets)