Ruddock, who led Wales to the RBS 6 Nations title and a first Grand Slam in over a quarter of a century earlier this year, was impressed with youngsters Ben Broster, Matthew Rees and Rhys Thomas, who all made impressive Test debuts.

And the coach reckons the emergence of such talented front-rowers will stand Wales in good stead for the November Tests against New Zealand, South Africa and Australia.

''We were very pleased with Ben on tour,'' Ruddock told the Western Mail.

''We have been struggling for tightheads a little bit, and now suddenly we have got someone who can scrummage and score tries.

''I was really impressed with him when he came on for his debut as a sub against the USA and he carried that form into the Canada game.

''The scrum was strong and he was very active in the loose. He made some excellent tackles and got his hands on the ball as well. He looked very promising.

''Adam Jones had a great season for us last year and is a mainstay of the pack.

''But the tour was about finding out about different players - people like Ben.''

Of hookers Rees and Thomas, Ruddock added: ''Matthew is a great prospect.

''He has worked hard over the last couple of years, first with Pontypridd and then the Celtic Warriors, gaining experience.

''And he had a real good run of games with the Scarlets last season and played quite outstandingly.

''He is very active in the line-out and busy both in attack and defence.

''As for Rhys, he had a very good season with the Blues too.

''I've been impressed with him technically. I've analysed his throwing and, technically, he's one of the better operators I've seen for quite a while, especially as a youngster.

''He can scrum well and he also shows up around the paddock.

''We were keen to build up some extra options at hooker ready for a massive season, and I think we've done that.

''There's a bigger pool of players to choose from now. Throughout the squad, there seems to be a lot more depth than this time last year.

''It's going to give me a bigger headache in terms of selection, but those are the kind of headaches you want. The good thing is that we've got youngsters knocking on the door and everyone wants to be in the team, which is great.''