Wales number eight Dan Baker has vowed to make the most of his call-up to the international squad for their tour to Japan this month.
Baker, who is yet to start a match at regional level and plays most of his rugby in the semi-professional Welsh Premiership, is one of a number of players who have benefited from a large Welsh presence on the current Lions tour.
The 20-year-old admits to being initially shocked at the difference in quality between club and international rugby, but hopes to emulate Lions trio Sam Warbuton, Jonathan Davies and Richard Hibbard, all of whom took part in a similar tour four years ago.
"It has been a massive jump from club to international rugby, even just with the training. I was in shock at first but I've been working hard on conditioning to get myself right for the tour. That side of my game hasn't been the best but it's coming along," said Baker.
"It's an exciting trip to Japan. There are quite a few youngsters in the squad but they are good all players and we all look back at what happened four years ago when Wales toured at the same time as the British Lions. A lot of boys came through on that trip, including Sam Warburton, Jonathan Davies and Richard Hibbard and look where they are now.
"I know this is a chance I have to take. I would love to get on the pitch and play against Japan who can't be underestimated."
Wales will face Japan in the first Test on June 8.
Barney Corkhill
