Mason Grady: Cardiff have no plans to use Wales star at 12

Thomas was also selected by Gatland to play out of position during the summer after being given the fly-half role for the losses against the Wallabies.

Sherratt prefers Thomas at 12 with new signing Callum Sheedy battling it out with Tinus de Beer for the fly-half role this season.

Sheedy made his Cardiff debut against Bath as a replacement for de Beer and looked assured in his new surroundings after arriving from Bristol.

“I’m really chuffed for him,” said Sherratt.

“I didn’t actually say anything [to him] pre-match. He’s a Cardiff lad and grew up watching games here.

“I think he went to see his mum who lives about 10 minutes away before the game.

“I think he was a bit nervous about playing but I thought he brought an air of calmness. He had three kicks to touch which all took us to within five metres out.

“He kicked when he needed to. He’s given us a little taste of what we can expect this year. At the end he’s caught the ball and cross-field kicked and then done a goosestep. I’m not sure where he’s learned that!

“He’s a Cardiff type of player. He’s got a good mentality and definitely brings some composure to the team.”

After missing Wales’ summer tour, Wales wing Josh Adams is battling to be fit for the opening United Rugby Championship game of the season against Zebre on Friday, 20 September.

Number eight Taulupe Faletau is expected to return some time in October after suffering a serious shoulder injury against Ulster in April.