Evan Lloyd became the 1,201st player to represent Wales when he came off the bench against France on Sunday in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations.
The Cardiff hooker was a late replacement in the match day squad for Ryan Elias who was withdrawn due to injury with Elliot Dee taking his place in the starting line-up. Lloyd replaced Dee in the second-half to earn his first Wales cap.
After the game, the 22-year-old spoke about his late call-up and how it eased the pressure on him and the 'unreal feeling' of playing for Wales at the Principality Stadium.
“It was late notice but I think I preferred that I didn't have time to overthink about it,” said Lloyd.
“I was calm and relaxed and then when we went down Westgate Street and all the fans were there it was just, it all hit me then.
“That's when I felt a bit of pressure but I just was trying to take in the moment and everything.
“Looking around and seeing the place fill up and then on the bench the reaction when boys were scoring and just yeah, it was an unreal feeling really.”
The 22-year-old was supported in force by his family and friends and expressed his gratitude to everyone who has helped him along his rugby journey, which included a late change of position from flanker to hooker.
“My mum, brothers, sister, cousins, grandma and nan, just the whole family really, a few of my mates,” added Lloyd.
“Everyone has helped me along the way really and then even just people that have helped me through the changing position, the transition and everything.
“It's been a quick turnaround but there's a lot of people that have helped me along the way.”