The 18-year-old beat Norman Biggs’s 122-year record by 25 days and produced an ice-cool display which suggested he could be a star of the future for Wales.
He was unfazed throughout, making his tackles count when called upon in defence and making himself available in attack, even if his Ospreys team mate James Hook neglected the unmarked winger in the second half which would have capped a fine afternoon’s work for the youngster.
“In Tom’s first cap thought he was very good, he didn’t have a lot of opportunites,” said Gatland, before adding, “He was composed, didn’t make any errors and worked hard in the first half. James [Hook] made a break, perhaps gone for himself, only needed to square up and Tom worked really hard to get on his outside and could have scored a try.
“We just saw his composure. When the ball was kicked long he allowed it go dead for a 22, so I think he’s got to be very pleased with his effort. He is only going to get better physically.
“We’ve got to keep working on his speed and power. If he gets a chance to play a bit of rugby in the next 18 months he won’t be far away from being 20 by the time the next World Cup comes around so we could potentially develop someone who could be very special. He also gives us options because he can play full back as well.”
