Fly-half Callum Sheedy reflected on an ‘unbelievable feeling’ after making his Wales debut in their Autumn Nations Cup opener against Ireland on Friday night.
The 25-year-old replaced Dan Biggar for the final 14 minutes of the Group A clash in Dublin and though the result didn’t go Wales’ way, Sheedy’s pride at making his international bow shone through when he spoke to the WRU website after the game.
“I’m so proud. It’s an unbelievable feeling and it’s hard to put it into words right now,” he said.
“I’m obviously disappointed that my family and friends can’t be here but I’m bursting with pride. It’s a dream come true.”
The stand-off, who hails from Cardiff, received the call-up after a string of impressive displays for his club side Bristol Bears, where he has been since 2014 having come through the academy system with the Ashton Gate outfit.
A Wales debut continues a fine year for Sheedy, who kicked 22 points in Bristol’s European Challenge Cup final victory over Toulon in October, and he hailed the influence of his parents for their support over the course of his rugby journey.
“Mum and dad shed a few tears, which was nice,” he said.
“They are so happy for me. They have seen it all over the years, they have followed my all over the country over the years.
“I think they’ve missed about three games in ten years. I wish they were here but we’ll have a nice Facetime tonight and we’ll share the moment.”
Sheedy received his cap in the Welsh dressing room from captain Alun Wyn Jones, who became the first player in history to reach 150 Test appearances when he led his side out in Dublin.
The 35-year-old shows no signs of slowing up and his experience is crucial when welcoming international newcomers – many of whom, like Sheedy, grew up idolising the iconic lock.
“Alun Wyn is an absolute legend and a hero of mine,” Sheedy said.
“I remember watching him growing up. The passion he has is amazing and to play 150 Tests is ridiculous. Just to be able to share the pitch and training pitch with him is very special.”
Wales’ defeat on Friday was their sixth in succession and they take on Georgia next weekend looking to bring that run to an end.
Sheedy will hope the contest brings another opportunity to pull on the famous red jersey but, for now, he is simply relishing the chance to have done so for the first time.
“It’s not often I’m lost for words but I feel I am now,” he said. “It’s an incredible feeling and one I’ll never forget for the rest of my life.”
