Thomas makes his 67th appearance for his country – fourth highest in Welsh rugby history – and is only three tries behind Ieuan Evans’ all-time scoring record.
Yet it was less than a year ago that Thomas’ international record looked to be all but over as he struggled in Test rugby’s wilderness.
Axed by Graham Henry after the surprise home defeat to Argentina in November 2001, Thomas only played once more for Wales during the next 12 months, at Twickenham the following March, only to be replaced and dropped once again, this time by Steve Hansen.
But the powerful wing never gave up hope of regaining what was once a regular place in the Wales team and after missing the tour to South Africa was recalled for last autumn’s international series.
He marked his return with tries against Romania and the following week against Fiji and went on to emerge as one of the few players to boost their reputation, despite Wales’ Six Nations whitewash, with further scores against Ireland and France.
‘In some ways my career has gone around in a circle but to be Wales captain is the ultimate honour,’ he said.
‘At times I did worry about what would happen to my international career but I never let it get me down too much. I knew that players come in and go out again so I just focussed on playing well for my club and to start enjoying the game again.
‘I think it paid off as I started to play some of my best rugby and the responsibly of being captain at Bridgend brought out the best in me. Now my career has hit another peak.
‘Captaining Wales is something I always dreamed of but was something that I thought would perhaps not happen. But now that it has, I just can’t wait to get out on the field.’
