LEE Thomas will find out today if playing for Sale Sharks will affect his chances of one day playing for Wales.

New proposals by Welsh Rugby Union group chief executive Roger Lewis and head coach Warren Gatland could have an impact on the centre's future international hopes.

The WRU is expected to agree on a ruling that will state the location of a player outside Wales will be an important factor in whether he is selected for the national team.

The policy is designed to build a secure international pathway for Wales' most talented players.

The proposals have been backed by the Welsh regional sides, but players already based outside the Principality may escape the ruling.

Thomas - who has just signed a new two year deal with Sharks - harbours dreams of running out for the national team.

He said: "Ever since I started playing rugby I have dreamed of playing for Wales. There has been talk about those who don't play their rugby in Wales being ruled out of playing for the national team, but it's my understanding that anyone already contracted to a team outside Wales could still qualify.

"I am really enjoying myself here at Sale and have just signed a new contract and would hate that to count against me."

WRU boss Lewis, said: "I am delighted by the response of the regions to this initiative.

"We all discussed it before the strategy was announced and we can now work together to ensure we achieve our common aims more effectively.

"It is a brave and tough strategy, but we are determined to carry this through because of the clear benefits it will deliver."

Settled

Head coach Gatland, added: "I have had very positive discussions with all the regions and I hope the backing they have now given to this strategy will help further the partnership between them and the national squad to help us all go forward and develop the game in Wales."

Thomas has been one of the stand-out players for Sharks this season and has settled in well since his move from Cardiff in 2006. He squared up to the challenge issued by Kingsley Jones and Philippe Saint-Andre last season amid the Sharks' injury crisis and his powerful performances have been rewarded with a regular first team slot alongside former All Black Luke McAlister.

Thomas was not considered for selection for the forthcoming Six Nations, but is widely tipped as a future star.

He has the backing of Sharks coach and former Wales skipper Jones and Wales legend Neil Jenkins, who forms part of the Wales management team under new boss Gatland.

Thomas added: "To be honest I wasn't really expecting to be called up for the Six Nations. I am having a good season with Sale and I suppose the key to selection is for me to continue working hard for my club, and keep putting in the effort."

Another player keeping a close eye on proceedings today will be Wales scrum-half Dwayne Peel, who recently announced that he had signed for Sale Sharks and would be joining them in the summer.

The club have been in talks with Peel and agreements have been reached, although at the time of his announcement, no contract had been signed.

SHARKS' French superstar Sebastien Chabal has been told the selection door is still open despite his shock omission from Les Bleus' RBS 6 Nations squad.

The giant forward was among 19 of France's World Cup squad not included for a tournament that sees them launch their campaign as defending champions against Scotland at Murrayfield on Sunday week.

But coach Marc Lievremont said: "Of course he has a chance to get back.

"The door is still open to those players left out."

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