NEWS EXTRA
NEW Wales squad member Ben Thomas is set to become the pin-up boy at Cardiff Arms Park next season after graduating to the cusp of the international stage.
With the current Cardiff Blues academy players earmarked for action in the Welsh Premiership when competitive rugby returns, the 22-year-old centre will be the one everyone will want to emulate.
Cardiff born and bred, Thomas moved seamlessly from Cardiff & Vale College into the Cardiff Academy and Wales U18 and U20 honours followed.
Last week he was named in Wales' senior squad for the first time, but his journey hasn't always gone to plan. Having made his Cardiff RFC debut at outside-half aged 18, nobody could put their finger on where Thomas' best position was going to be.
“Everyone could see his talent, but nobody was sure how best to nurture it or where best to play him,” Cardiff RFC head coach Steve Law said. “He needed managing and he needed to play.
“I'm not sure if the Blues were on the verge of releasing him, but there were a few doubts. When he came to us to play in the Premiership, he very quickly built up his confidence. Within six months he had earned the right to be picked week in, week out and he was better than any player on the pitch.
“He helped us to win the Welsh Cup and won the Premiership's best newcomer award in 2019.”
Now Law wants to use Thomas' story to inspire the youngsters who play in Blue and Black next season and beyond.
If he makes it all the way in Wayne Pivac's side this summer it will be a classic example of how the regional team and the semi-professional side can work in harmony for the good of everyone.
“As a youngster, if you aren't playing in the first team it can be soul destroying,” adds Law. “What Ben needed was the chance to play and he got that opportunity in the Premiership.
“He's still played more games for Cardiff (38) than Blues (31) and I hope we helped him along the way.”
