Wales had a solitary win to show from their 2008/09 campaign with only whipping boys Italy below them in the final standings.

France pipped Ireland to the title last year with their points difference of 97, 95 clear of Ireland in second with England next back in third.

Thomas will lead the side into this campaign that kicks off against England at Gloucester on February 10, and despite last year’s poor showing is in bullish mood.

“I didn’t feel that the score lines that got put against us reflected the effort we put in last year but we are feeling good about this year,” said Thomas.

“From now it is all about working on our consistency, around 50 per cent of the squad that played last year are still eligible to do so this year which is a big boost for us.

“We need to address what we did wrong last season as it was the little mistakes that cost us.

“There were a few good performances as the team got more used to it and this year there will be more experienced players in the squad so that will definitely help us.

“I have spoken to a lot of the other players about it and we want to work hard to improve and get some better results.”