YOUNG Newport number eight Andrew Powell moves up another stage today when he lines up against a Leinster back row including Irish caps Eric Miller and Victor Costello.

But next month it could be a step further, for the 20-year-old is being lined up for a place in the Wales A squad for the matches against Argentina, Tonga and Uruguay.

Yet Powell is still qualified for the under-21s and he still isnt into double figures in the number of senior matches he has played.

But the Newport Youth product from Brecon is the first to admit injuries to rivals presented him with his big chance.

Joe Powell and Alix Popham were both injured, and Ive taken my chance, admitted the Newport youngster who has already impressed Wales coach Graham Henry.

Its great for me to have others around at Newport which means Ive got a lot more confidence and self belief.

Now he moves on to Dublin for another big Heineken Cup clash, but his attitude remains the same its just another game while refusing to be overawed.

Ill take every game as it comes, though this one looks like being the hardest of the lot, he admitted.

Im just enjoying it, its not my effort, were playing as a team, we all believe in one another as a 15.

Leinster are highly rated, but Ill just keep on going and playing my own game.

Were playing as a team and if we can get momentum on the ball we can overcome them.

If you come up against an international side it can put you off, but no worries. If it hits you it can put you off your game.

Powell had no ambition at the start of the season other than to make the Wales under-21 squad. He looks like going a lot higher.

My goal was to play for the under-21s this season, but if I make the Wales A team that would be great, he said.

Anything else would be an even greater bonus.

He acknowledges the part played by Gary Teichmann, the former Springbok great and ex-Newport captain, who is following the teams fortunes closely from South Africa, often ringing up.

It was great to have him around last year, he made me feel brilliant, said Powell.

Hes a great person, he just said take your time, youve got a long time ahead of you.

Powell is reaping the rewards, and it could mean an A team place next month.

Matthew Watkins is the other major Newport candidate.