The 21-year-old forward is tipped to have a big future in the game by Wales coach Steve Hansen – even before taking on the All Blacks single handedly.
And despite ending up on the losing side following Wales’ hard-fought 53-37 defeat at Sydney’s Telstra Stadium, Thomas was more than happy to relive his night of personal glory with the Welsh Rugby Union’s official website wru.co.uk.
And in particularly, he praised the travelling support that roared Wales on against mighty New Zealand.
“When I got the nod that I was playing I was just grateful for the opportunity to play with the eyes of the world watching as I have had to bide my time with so many senior players in the squad,” said the Neath-Swansea Osprey.
“About an hour before kick-off we went out on the pitch and there were not that many people around, but then when we ran out in front of 80,000 fans it was unbelievable.
“The atmosphere in the stadium was amazing and it really lifted the players when they heard the crowd chanting “Wales, Wales. It was almost like playing at home and was a special moment.”
Thomas not only learned a lot from the game but will also have been given a huge confidence boost following a barnstorming performance on the flank.
Despite packing down against All Black captain Reuben Thorne, Thomas cut gaping holes in the New Zealand defence with apparent ease.”
“I was obviously pleased with parts of my own game but disappointed that we had lost,” he said.
“I think a lot of the guys felt like that. But that game showed what can be done when a team holds onto the ball. We knew we had kicked too much possession away when we met last time so this time we just held on and caused them problems.”
“This gives us a real buzz now for the England game. We’ve been kicked in the teeth over the last 12 months but a performance like that gives us all a lot of heart
“The team spirit has always been good in the squad. Even during the low times everyone has stuck together. We’re still a pretty young side but we will learn so much from this game.”
