Rugby World Cup 2011: Wales must 'forget past' says George North
Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union
Wing George North has said Wales need to forget about past World Cups as they prepare to face South Africa.
The 19-year-old Scarlets player is the youngest member of Wales' 30-man World Cup squad.
"You have to look where you've come from in the past and see where you can improve," said North.
"I feel the way we're playing now and the team spirit we've got I think we've got to forget that and focus on the now."
Warren Gatland's side begin their campaign in Pool D against World Cup holders South Africa in Wellington on Sunday.
North has been selected on the right wing ahead of Cardiff Blues' Leigh Halfpenny while Rhys Priestland starts at fly-half.
Wales have under achieved in previous World Cups and failed to reach the quarter-finals four years ago and also failed to get out of their group in 1991.
Their best performance was at the inagural World Cup in 1987, where they finished third.
"I just can't wait now," North told BBC Wales. "Time can't come fast enough.
"Being the younger guy in the squad I've dreamt of this for years. It's something I'm looking forward to as a player, to test myself against the best in the world.
"I want to try and make my own history with the boys and hopefully I can look back at this and say: "I remember that".
"Now I've got the opportunity I just want to keep on working hard and hopefully the team can come through like I know we can."
North has won eight international caps since making a sensational debut against South Africa in November 2010.
The Anglesey-raised player was a virtual unknown when he scored two tries on his debut at the Millennium Stadium.
"I've had good experiences against South Africa I'm looking forward to playing against them again," he said.
