Former Wales hooker calls time on his career

Former Wales hooker T Rhys Thomas has decided to hang up his boots and pursue a coaching career with the Newport Dragons Academy.

The Dragons have brought in to new replacement hookers, London Irish’s Gerard Ellis and Cardiff Blues’ Liam Belcher. The pair will compete with Elliot Dee and Rhys Buckle for the number two jersey.

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Meanwhile, Thomas brings to an end a long and successful playing career. The 35-year-old won 27 caps for Wales and played all four matches at the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

Thomas captained Newport in the 2015-2016 season and made 70 appearances in four years at the club.

He has previously played for Wasps and the Cardiff Blues. It was with the Blues he won the European Rugby Challenge Cup when they beat Toulon in 2010.