Sam Warbuton is acknowledged as one of the best open-side flankers in the world. He made his debut for Wales against the USA in 2009 and captained his country for the first time in June 2011 at the age of 22, becoming the second youngest captain ever to skipper Wales. He led his country to the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2011 and to a triumphant Grand Slam in the Six Nations in 2012. In July 2018, he announced his retirement from rugby union.