Roberts first international cap was gained in the opening game of the 1888 Home Nations Championship.
The Welsh selectors had chosen two different fullbacks in the last two internationals, since Harry Bowen, a fellow Llanelli player, had face England in early 1887.
With England withdrawn from the tournament, Wales faced Scotland in the opening game at home at Newport's Rodney Parade.
Roberts was reselected at halfback for the very next Wales international, in the second and final Welsh game of the 1888 Championship, away to Ireland.
Under the captaincy of Tom Clapp, the Welsh team faced an international opposition for the final time playing with three threequarters system, but lost heavily.