Thomas, 23, says Wales desperately needed that win against Japan in Kobe in July to ease the mounting pressure.
“It was massive, we were in a dark spot, especially going to Japan knowing we had to go there and get a win,” said Thomas.
“We didn’t shy away from that. Our whole ambition of that tour was to get a win and put an end to that for a period of time.
“Everyone was just relieved. The weight of the pressure was building, so it was nice to clean that slate and put that behind us.”
Thomas is primarily a lock, but is also an option at blind-side flanker if Tandy is looking at selecting a bulkier forward pack.
“I generally don’t really care, I just want to play,” said Thomas.
“Obviously I play a bit of both at Gloucester. Around the park my game doesn’t change, I try and play the same way.
“It’s probably just around the set-piece where it is different.
“I’d like to see myself as more of a lock that can play six, rather than a six that can play lock, but whatever or wherever gets me in the squad, I’ll happily play.”
