Cyprus calls for Dico

Pontypridd captain Chris Dicomidis has been given an international call-up by Cyprus, qualifying for selection through his paternal grandfather.

Cyprus is one of the newest members of the rugby world community, having only played their first international against neighbours Greece in 2007. The team is nicknamed “The Moufflons” after the horned sheep which is a national emblem.

Cyprus currently play against other fledgling national teams such as Slovakia, Luxembourg, Bulgaria and Finland.

Commenting on the surprise international call-up Dicomidis said: “The whole thing came out of the blue, and started off through some dialogues on Twitter which ended up with an invitation to play for Cyprus.

“I don’t know much about the setup there at the moment, but know that countries such as Cyprus are competing in a Euro Nations tournament, with a view ultimately to qualifying for the Rugby World Cup 2015.

“It will be a different kind of challenge, hopefully one that I can enjoy, and I aim to take every opportunity that comes my way.”