Thomas – who switched codes to join rugby league side Crusaders last week – insists Williams should still be a certain starter for Warren Gatland’s men.

And 35-year-old Thomas believes Williams will surpass his 100 cap record by the time Wales travel to New Zealand for the World Cup next year.

“How can people question Martyn Williams? I just find it unbelievable,” said Thomas. “He has never been a scapegoat in his career and he won’t be one now as far as I am concerned.

“Rugby is a team game and people come into teams and go out of them, but I’m not sure I’ve ever seen Martyn have a bad game.

“The trouble is the standards he has set for himself, a half-good game for him is an outstanding one for somebody else.

“He’s on 94 caps now and I wouldn’t think he’s gunning for the mark and I’m certainly not looking over my shoulder worrying about it either.

“All I can say is that if he gets to 100 caps it will be a great accolade for us both to have. But Martyn is just a great player with still loads left in the tank.”