Smith: Advice from Ospreys forwards invaluable

The 20-year-old loose-head prop made ten Ospreys appearances in total, including scoring his first ever RaboDirect PRO12 try in the season-ending 45-20 win over Connacht earlier this month.

His performances did not go unnoticed by the Ospreys management either who offered him a three-year deal in April.

And while his attentions are now turning to representing Wales at the Junior World Championships in New Zealand this summer, Smith, who admitted his quick rise had come as a shock, was quick to thank his club teammates for their help.

"The likes of Alun Wyn (Jones), Ian Evans and Adam Jones are guys that are happy to give you a hand," Smith told the WRU.

"Duncan Jones is another one who's really helped me through as he's the same position as me. He has a lot of time for me and they've all been brilliant.

"I've been happy with how the season has gone, it's been a bit of a shock but I'm really pleased with everything.

"I'm shocked at the opportunities I've had. I didn't expect them to be honest and then I got the contract so it's all been a big shock, but I'm chuffed and delighted by it.

"The key is to be patient and that's really what I was looking for - to keep knocking on that door. So to have the opportunity so early is great and I've been delighted with it."

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