Haydn Thomas, the scrum half for the Aviva Premiership Rugby Football Union club the Exeter Chiefs is looking forward to making his mark and grabbing the England chance given to him as he prepares to take on the Barbarians at the weekend. The 30 year old was first called up to the squad at this time last year but he failed to make that opportunity count as he did not get the chance to come onto the field during the country’s tour of South Africa last summer.
Speaking to BBC South West Sport, the Exeter man stated that he was extremely disappointed after not being able to make the match day squad against South Africa. And he went on to admit that to get that second chance when he thought he would never get it again was like a blessing. The Exeter Chiefs scrum half also mentioned that he didn’t believe it when he got to know the news.
Thomas had another stellar season at Sandy Park, scoring four tries in 26 appearances for the club as he helped it to their second successive sixth place finish in the Aviva Premiership in a season where they also made their first ever appearance in the Heineken Cup. Thomas added that the fact that the club has done well again has given him another opportunity to put him on the map and he admitted that when one is given such a chance, he should grab it with both hands.
The Exeter Chiefs player also admitted that there are some brilliant nines in the country and the competition is tough but he mentioned that being a part of that environment will be enough inspiration to put his best foot forward and hope for the best outcome out of this as can be done.