Matthew Screech was lost for words on Saturday as he achieved a life-long dream by winning his first Wales cap in the summer Test against Argentina.
After eight seasons with Dragons, the lock returns to his home club ahead of the 2021/22 campaign, and will now link-up with the senior squad at Cardiff Arms Park as a full international.
Screech came off the bench in the early stages of the second half, replacing former club team-mate Ben Carter at second row, but Wales ultimately fell to defeat against Los Pumas in the final Test of the summer.
At 28 years old, Screech knows it’s bee a long journey to earn his first taste on the international stage and he’s hungry to prove that he deserves further involvement in the future.
“Words can’t describe the feeling really, it’s an amazing feeling to get out there and finally put on the Welsh jersey,” explained the academy product.
“It’s been a long road so to get across the line is a dream come true. I had 30 minutes, I tried to get myself involved and get my hands on the ball as much possible.
“I just want to do my best for the team, it wasn’t to be today but still it was an amazing. It was pretty hot out there, it was probably the hottest game I’ve ever played in so not your typical Welsh weather.
“I thought I had a decent season and was a little bit disappointed to not be named in the initial squad but I was delighted to get the call in the end.
“I’m just happy that I’ve finally achieved my dream, I’ve had a small taste of it today, I’d love to be here more often and show everyone exactly what I can do.”