The Wales coach recalled a host of new faces including Shane and Martyn Williams, James Hook and Gethin Jenkins as well as selecting uncapped duo George North and Scott Andrews.

But not Czejak who has been a key figure for the Blues so far this term and vowed to take his international rejection on the chin and make himself a shoo-in for next year’s Six Nations.

“I was bitterly disappointed to hear that I wasn’t in the squad,” said Czekaj – who has seven international caps to his name.

“I didn’t hear anything beforehand and was just waiting for the announcement. Then some of the boys knew they were in and I hadn’t heard anything so that was it.

“But I suppose the best thing I can do is play well and show that they made a mistake and that I should be there – that is all I can do.

“The aim now is to play well up to the Six Nations and hopefully I can figure in that squad. It is great when you hear you name announced for the Wales squad.

“It gives you a huge boost and it has been a while since I have been in and around the squad so hopefully I can make it next time.”