The brothers have already helped secure a win over Croatia

Richard and Graham Thomas, from Aberkenfig near Bridgend, are eligible to play for the Balkan side because their mother Sonja was born there.

They have already played three matches and helped win a game against rivals Croatia.

But bad weather conditions in the former Yugoslav republic means that they will have to hang up their international boots until the season restarts in April.

Richard, 31, who plays in the back row for Tondu rugby club, explained how they were called up.

"We knew there was a rugby team in Slovenia, but didn't really know how to get in touch with them," he said.

"But some of our friends from Llanelli were going over to play and told them we were interested in playing for them.

Rugby in Wales is massive and it is part of our culture Richard Thomas

"Then five weeks ago, we had an offer to go and spend a week training."

His younger brother Graham, 29, a prop at Bridgend added: "We spent the week there and, on the Saturday, we played with the team against Croatia.

"It was a hard game but we won 22-20.

"The team is really up and coming - the game isn't widely supported out there at the moment and there are only four teams playing.

"But things are changing and they are doing really well - they have only just got promoted," he added.

The Slovenian side is currently listed as 49th in the International Rugby Board's world rankings.

The brothers, who have always played rugby, said that even making the long journey from south Wales to Slovenia could not dampen their pride.

Richard Thomas said it was an honour to be selected for the Slovenian side

"It is a long way to travel," explained Graham.

"We have got to travel to Stansted for the flight and then have another long journey when we get there.

"But it is worth it."

His brother agreed: "Our family is so proud of us.

"They have been over with us when we have played, and our family who live out there have been supporting us too.