Alex Cuthbert admits he found it difficult watching Wales’ charge to a Grand Slam this year but insists joining Exeter Chiefs was the correct decision.
The strapping winger had bagged a brace of stunning tries during Wales’ previous Six Nations title, when they mugged England with a record 30-3 triumph in Cardiff six years ago.
But he turned his back on the Test arena a year ago when he left Cardiff Blues for exile with the Chiefs because he was 13 caps short of the 60-cap threshold imposed by the Welsh Rugby Union to be considered for Wales selection.
"I put a lot on the line in terms of leaving Wales and especially with them winning the Grand Slam this year,” Cuthbert told the BBC.
"I resigned myself to missing the buzz of international rugby when I came down here. I miss running out at the Principality Stadium because there is no feeling like that in the world.
"It (The Grand Slam) was hard to watch but I know what that feeling is like in the changing room. I am a proud Welshman and I was delighted for them.
"Moving was definitely the right decision (for me). One of the main reasons I came down was to win trophies and we have a great opportunity this weekend. I am enjoying rugby and I probably have not been this excited for a while."
Exeter are plotting to spike reigning Gallagher Premiership champions Saracens’ dream of a European and English double when they clash in the domestic final at Twickenham on Saturday.
It may be a repeat of last season's final with Saracens having ran out convincing winners on that occasion but Cuthbert isn't fazed by the size of the challenge.
"A win would be right up there in my career. I came here to win the Premiership and to have that chance in my first year is going to be right near the top of the list (achievements),” Cuthbert told the BBC .
“I probably haven’t been this excited in a rugby environment for a while.
"It will be my biggest club stage. I have played plenty of big games with Wales and the Lions so am looking forward to another big occasion I hope I can rise to and hopefully give everything to get it (win).
