The under-13 team at Welsh rugby hero Gavin Henson’s old school will be praying for a grand slam victory tomorrow when Wales faces Ireland in the Six Nations Championship - and a few winning kicks from their silver-booted idol.

They have been busy putting the boot into English opposition by reaching the final of the Rosslyn Sevens tournament in London this week, only to lose out 17-0 to another Welsh school, Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni, in Blackwood, Caerphilly.

The team, from Brynteg comprehensive, Bridgend, are the latest in a batch of raw rugby talent to emerge from Henson’s alma mater. The hallowed turf of the school’s rugby pitch has been graced by six British Lions - JPR Williams, Gareth Williams, Mike Hall, Dafydd James, Rob Howley and Dr Jack Matthews.

Paul Bowen, head of PE at the school and one of Henson’s former rugby teachers, said: “We hope Gavin will be our seventh British Lion. That will be some achievement. We put our success down to the dedication of both the staff and teachers, and the fact our lads have so many idols to live up to.

The U13 team all have Gav’s spiky hair although they do not shave their legs yet.”

Gavin Henson’s popularity soared after he helped clinch a famous 11-9 victory over England with a brilliant 45-metre penalty kick last month.

Subsequent wins over France and Scotland have put Wales in line for its first grand slam victory since 1978.

The star back admits to shaving his legs to help give tackling opponents the slip. He also recently started dating Welsh diva Charlotte Church, who is to sing the national anthem at the Millennium stadium tomorrow.