**Wales’ Gareth Davies Talks Life On and Off the Pitch: “Retirement Isn’t On My Mind Yet”**
Gareth Davies, the much-lauded Scarlets and Wales scrum-half, is in no rush to call time on a rugby career that has seen him crowned as one of the nation’s great servants. Despite his increasing interests away from the rugby field, Davies, now 34, told a local publication that he remains as committed as ever to his playing days and still feels he has more to offer on the pitch.
For many, Davies will be forever remembered for his game-changing interventions during some of Welsh rugby’s most compelling moments — his unforgettable try at Twickenham in 2015 against England, and his crucial interception in Tokyo that all but sealed a famous victory over Australia. When reflecting on his career highlights, these moments still loom large. “Winning my first cap in South Africa in 2014 was very special for me and my family,” Davies recalls. “That try against England to knock them out in 2015 meant so much, as did the 2019 Grand Slam and making the World Cup semi-final.”
Davies acknowledges he has faced fierce competition along the way, singling out South Africa’s Faf de Klerk as perhaps the toughest opponent during his years on the international stage. “He was relentless — always closing me down, always in my space at the ruck,” says Davies, with clear respect. When pressed on the best teammate he’s played alongside, Davies points quickly to Liam Williams, saying, “When he was at his peak, Liam always delivered something special. He never turned in a poor performance and always gave everything for the team.”
Away from the field, Davies is already carving out a successful second chapter in his career. Together with his business partner Simon John, Davies co-founded Blackbear Property, an estate agency based in Haverfordwest which, after just a year, has expanded to Swansea. “We set up Blackbear just over 12 months ago,” he explains. “It’s been a team effort and I’m proud of how we’ve all pulled together.” Davies also has plans to work with his family’s car business, Cawdor Cars, which operates several garages across south-west Wales. Balancing business and rugby, he says, is laying solid groundwork for his post-rugby days.
The quick success of Blackbear Property, Davies says, is down to blending new technology with traditional estate agency values. The firm has even formed a partnership with a leading digital agency, helping them stand out locally. “If you’re prepared to put the work in, like in rugby, you can see results,” Davies remarks. His ambitions don’t stop at two offices; plans are afoot to expand further into Cardiff, Monmouthshire and even Bristol, possibly through franchises in the future.
While he stepped away from international rugby last year after 77 test caps and appearances for the British & Irish Lions, Davies’ love for the game remains undiminished. “Retiring from international duty lifted some pressure,” Davies admits. “Now, I can focus on the Scarlets, and it’s helped me enjoy my rugby more.” The respite from demanding test schedules has allowed Davies not only to prolong his career but also to mentor younger Scarlets talents such as Archie Hughes. “I’m not the loudest in team meetings but I try to give meaningful advice when I do speak,” he adds.
The Scarlets’ veteran believes the club has much to look forward to next season, thanks in part to emerging prospects like Macs Page and Blair Murray. Although recent campaigns saw disappointing narrow defeats, a late run of bonus-point wins has sparked anticipation. “We finished strongly, and I’m certain there’s a lot more to come from this squad,” Davies says with optimism.
When it comes to the question of retirement, Davies answers candidly: “I’ve got another year left on my Scarlets contract, so we’ll see what the future holds. As long as I’m enjoying my rugby, I’d like to carry on. If I get the opportunity, perhaps I’ll extend my time here or even consider playing abroad.”
As thoughts turn to life beyond the touchlines, Davies has little interest in coaching. “Honestly, I’m looking forward to being a rugby fan,” he says. There is, however, a new enthusiasm for broadcasting — something he’s enjoyed more than expected after doing some work with Welsh-language channel S4C.
From iconic tries in packed stadiums to property sales in Pembrokeshire, Gareth Davies’s drive remains unchanged. For now, his boots are not yet destined for the shelf — and with an eye on both business and a promising young Scarlets crop, he shows no sign of slowing down, either on or off the pitch.