Head coach Byron Hayward has named an exciting-looking outfit for the upcoming RBS 6 Nations, with more than two thirds of the squad set to experience their first taste of international rugby at this level.
Thomas is one of the few with previous Wales Under 20 caps to his name and is looking forward to showing his new teammates the ropes.
“The more players you play with, the better it is to help develop your own game and your own strengths and weaknesses,” said the Ospreys prop.
“The coaches are looking forward to implementing their philosophies on us but those of us who were here last year need to instil the professionalism and intensity on the boys who maybe haven’t experienced it before.”
Last season saw the Wales Under 20 side finish as runners-up in both the Six Nations and Junior World Championship, with a number of those who featured in those squads going on to play regional and in some cases, full international rugby this season.
Following that record will be a tough ask but with a Six Nations opener with Italy on the horizon, Thomas is ready to step up as one of the squad’s senior men.
“If it’s anything like last year, it will be a great experience,” he said, looking ahead to the next few months.
“Hopefully I can bring those experiences to the new boys for this year. There are expectations that have to be met after the success of last year but we’ve got to realise that’s over now and we need to build our own success this year.
“Italy are always a hugely physical side but I’m hoping we can power through that and our skill level will out do them.
“We are a team and I don’t want to point out any individuals but as a squad, we are looking sharp ahead of our first game.”
