Jonah Holmes says he was "ecstatic" upon learning he had been selected in the Wales squad for their upcoming Autumn internationals in November.

While the fullback's inclusion came as a surprise to many in the rugby world, with supporters taking to social media to admit they were unaware of his Welsh roots, Holmes qualifies through his grandmother who was born and raised in Wales.

"I was ecstatic when I heard," Holmes said.

"My Nan is Welsh and was born and raised there before moving to Hereford where my Mum was born."

While enjoying the moment and recognition for his recent form at fullback for Leicester, Holmes is also keeping his feet on the ground until he's able to show he's capable of reaching the same level on the international stage.

"It means nothing until I can prove myself on the international stage, but it's amazing to get the opportunity," he said.

Holmes will now link-up with his new team mates in camp this Sunday before competing for a place in the matchday squad ahead of their opening Autumn international against against Scotland on November 3.

"I go away this Sunday and obviously just have got to get my head down and try to prove in training what I'm capable of," said Holmes.

"I want to be a part of it as soon as possible and am looking forward to the challenge."

Unavailable for the opening round in this season's Gallagher Premiership, Holmes has featured in every fixture since and added another string to his bow over the past fortnight of action filling in at fullback for Telusa Veainu.

"I'm glad to have had the opportunities I've had this season and it's very nice to be selected, but it's not something I can fully celebrate until I've proven myself in the group."