On his inclusion in the team, Thomas said: “It was a bit unexpected, but I am excited to start for the Dragons.
“I am very happy to be getting the game time, even if it is in the second row rather than the back row.
“Playing alongside the likes of Rynard Landman you are able to learn a lot from someone like that, and I am looking forward to the game.”
The 24-year old is amongst three changes made from the team that won a bonus point against Stade Francais last weekend.
The back three, skipper Lee Byrne, Matthew Pewtner and Hallam Amos, all retain their places from last weekend after impressing the coaches. Similarly the centre pairing of Tom Prydie and Ashley Smith also keep their places. Young gun Angus O’Brien gets the nod as fly-half as does Richie Rees at scrum-half.
The front row takes on a slightly different shape as it includes props Boris Stankovich and Dan Way, alongside hooker Elliot Dee. The second row sees the inclusion of James Thomas who replaces Andrew Coombs. Thomas plays alongside Rynard Landman in the second row with Lewis Evans, Nic Cudd and Taulupe Faletau all keeping their spots in the back row.
The bench has five changes which include T. Rhys Thomas, Phil Price, Lloyd Fairbrother, Andrew Coombs and Dorian Jones who join Andy Powell, Jonathan Evans and Aled Brew.
Newport Gwent Dragons team to face Newcastle Falcons
Lee Byrne ©, Matthew Pewtner, Tom Prydie, Ashley Smith, Hallam Amos, Angus O’Brien, Richie Rees; Boris Stankovich, Elliot Dee, Dan Way, James Thomas, Rynard Landman, Lewis Evans, Nic Cudd, Taulupe Faletau.
Replacements: T. Rhys Thomas, Phil Price, Lloyd Fairbrother, Andrew Coombs, Andy Powell, Jonathan Evans, Dorian Jones, Aled Brew.
