NEW signing Sam Lewis has revealed the chance to play alongside former Wales international Jonathan Thomas helped to sway his decision to join Worcester Warriors.
The 24-year-old left Ospreys with immediate effect to sign for the Greene King IPA Championship leaders, where he hopes to gain more game-time.
The talented open-side flanker admitted it was a difficult decision to leave his hometown club where he made 65 appearances in four seasons.
But after speaking to experienced forward Thomas, who spent ten years at Ospreys before moving to Worcester in 2013, Lewis said his mind was made up.
“It was a tough (decision) because it is my home region and I loved playing for the club,” Lewis said. “But to develop my game and my career I felt Worcester was the right place to come.
“I know Joe Rees who was at the Ospreys with me and JT, who was a big influence for me while I was coming through.
“He really helped the young players and helped with the development of my game, so I looked up to him as a leading rugby player and he was brilliant.
“I spoke to John about this club and he had good things to say, so he did help my decision and I have really enjoyed myself here.”
Although Lewis’ debut against Plymouth Albion last Saturday came just days after he arrived at Sixways, the Welshman said he was expecting a battle to remain in the team due to the level of competition at the club.
“The back row is going really well this season, so it is going to be tough,” he said. “But hopefully I can hit the ground running and when I get that chance I can take it.
“It was a big step for me to leave my home region and it is the first club I have left the Ospreys for. But the boys have been brilliant and have been very welcoming.
“It is just up to me to get my head down and try and impress the coaches.”
<b>Flanker Sam Lewis has followed in the footsteps of Jonathan Thomas, who made the switch from Ospreys to Warriors. Picture by Marcus Mingins. 1115019MMR1.</b>