This summer, the Welsh rugby team is preparing for Test matches against South Africa and Australia, and the squad selection is eagerly anticipated by fans. With injuries ruling out some players and others making a comeback, the stakes are high as coaches decide on the final lineup.
Certain players are almost guaranteed a spot in the final squad, including World Cup co-captains Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan, as well as Gareth Thomas, Dafydd Jenkins, Will Rowlands, Aaron Wainwright, and Tommy Reffell. The first Test match against South Africa falls outside of World Rugby’s designated international window, preventing players based outside of Wales from joining the squad.
A few players remain on the cusp of selection, with their fate yet to be determined. Nicky Smith, Kemsley Mathias, and Leon Brown are in the running, alongside rising talents like Archie Griffin, Harri O’Connor, Alex Mann, and James Botham. The return of Liam Williams and the potential inclusion of Keiran Williams and Johnny Williams also add intrigue to the selection process.
In an effort to build a squad for the next World Cup, young talents like Jacob Beetham, Josh Hathaway, and Eddie James are being considered. The search for a destructive blindside flanker could lead to the selection of Ryan Woodman, while Reuben Morgan-Williams and debutant Louie Hennessey are also on the radar. With limited options at second-row, James Fender emerges as a potential wildcard pick.
Unfortunately, Wales will be without Gareth Anscombe, Taulupe Faletau, Adam Beard, and Joe Roberts due to injuries, impacting the team’s options for the summer tour.
The summer tour squad will feature a blend of experience and youth, with new faces vying for a place and established players making their return. As the anticipation builds for the final squad announcement, Welsh rugby fans eagerly await the upcoming Test matches.