As a union player Watkins was part of the 1939 team which won the Home Nations Championship, and was more famously a member of the Welsh side that beat the touring All Blacks in 1935.
In 1939 he joined Wigan and played in three internationals during the war years for Wales league side against England.
During the Second World War he served in the Special Investigation Branch of the Royal Air Force, and played in two Services internationals.
Cardiff were hoping that a strong pack containing Watkins, Les Spence and Gwyn Williams would give the club an advantage against the All Blacks, but were soundly beaten in an exciting game.
During his time with Wigan, he made three appearances for the Wales national rugby league side, his first was played at Odsal against England on 18 October 1941.