Rugby boys in TV star search

Mathew is a pupil at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf, Cardiff

A new BBC TV programme has chosen two Welsh teenagers among the final 20 contestants hoping to become sporting stars.

Rugby players Matthew McLean, from Cardiff and Leigh Bevan, from Bonymaen, Swansea, both 17, were picked from more than 2,000 hopefuls for Born To Win, which starts on BBC1 on Saturday.

The event, open to 16-18-year-olds from across Britain, is the UK's biggest search for new sport stars.

The entrants will compete in physical and mental events in the Austrian skiing resort of St Anton.

"The greatest thing I've achieved in sport is to walk out on to the rugby pitch in the Wales shirt. Rising Welsh rugby star Leigh Bevan

Mathew said: "From the age of eight, I have slowly gone up through the ranks of school, then county and I now play for Bath under-17s.

"Jonny Wilkinson is my favourite player. I know it's an obvious thing to say but his attitude, determination is an absolute inspiration.

"My dream is to play for Wales and the British and Irish Lions."

Leighs brother Kristofer has helped him to perfect his kicking skills

'Ultimate sporting hero'

Full-back Leigh said: "The greatest thing I've achieved in sport is to walk out on to the rugby pitch in the Wales shirt.

"I've played for my country four times and it makes me so proud.

"My club side is Bonymaen and we've got some side!

"New Zealand star Christian Cullen is my ultimate sporting hero.

"It's just the way he takes people on, he's got a wicked sidestep and is just so cool under pressure with the high ball."

Welsh hurdling legend Colin Jackson and Olympic champion Sally Gunnell are the show mentors who will oversee the ten boys and ten girls whittled down to find the ultimate champion.

Born To Win will be on BBC 1 on Saturday, 27 September at 1730 BST.