Dee sees the game with the Pacific Islanders as an opportunity to, as he puts it, “show what I am about” on what will be his 12th Test appearance for his country.
The 24-year-old Dragons hooker starts as one of 14 changes made by Gatland and is relishing being part of a competitive Wales squad.
“Over the last year we’ve developed quite a bit of squad depth and that’s good for any team,” said Dee.
“When there is somebody in your position who has been given the chance to play and has played well, you want to do the same when you get the opportunity.
“I think I am a different player to the other hookers in that maybe I like to get the ball in my hands a bit more and be more of a playmaker.
“I like to look for as much work as I can”.
Dee is one of six Dragons in the match day squad to face Tonga and is well aware of the challenge the Pacific Islanders will pose.
“The games tend to be a bit looser and they are big, powerful blokes who come right out of the blocks at you,” he said.
“We know the first 20 minutes are going to be tough, but we are prepping for that. We want to get out there, keep performing, and rack up another win and move on from there.
“We want to move Tonga around, put in a good performance, score a few tries, and be successful.”
For tickets to this Saturday’s match against Tonga at Principality Stadium, click here.
