Gareth Thomas could become a two-code international after being named in Wales' initial rugby league training squad for its European Cup defence in October.

Thomas played the last of his record 100 rugby union caps for Wales at the 2007 World Cup in France, then switched to league.

In his first season with the Wrexham-based Crusaders, the 36-year-old Thomas made himself available to Wales coach Iestyn Harris - also on the Crusaders' staff - and was picked in a 48-man squad on Tuesday.

"To be able to represent Wales in a different sport, in such a short space of time, is a massive, massive honour and achievement for me," said Thomas, a former captain of Wales and the British and Irish Lions.

"No one likes representing their country more than me. For me to hopefully say I've represented Wales in both codes is a great honour for me and my family and is one of the highlights of my rugby career."

Wales will face Scotland, Ireland and France in the European Cup, with the winner qualifying for the 2011 Four Nations.

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