Imagine the buzz of anticipation gripping the rugby world as Wales unveils their squad for a crucial clash against Japan – a match that could redefine their position on the global stage. With stakes this high in the autumn internationals, every decision feels like a game-changer. But here's where it gets intriguing: how will these fresh faces adapt to the pressure of international rugby, especially after some eyebrow-raising comebacks and injuries? Stick around, because we're diving deep into the details, and trust me, there's plenty to unpack that might surprise you.
Wales has officially announced their lineup for the second fixture of the autumn internationals, gearing up to take on Japan. Leading the charge is Louis Rees-Zammit, the dynamic 24-year-old winger making his first start since October 2023 after that much-talked-about return to the international scene. If you're new to rugby, Rees-Zammit is like a lightning bolt on the field – known for his explosive speed and agility. His time away from rugby saw him testing the waters with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL, and he insists he's come back stronger, more muscular, and even quicker than before. You can read more about his transformation here (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/louis-rees-zammit-changes-revealed-32860770). To accommodate this, Alex Mann has switched positions to openside flanker, stepping in for the injured Jac Morgan. Morgan, the team captain, suffered a shoulder dislocation while celebrating a try against Argentina last weekend, ruling him out for the rest of the autumn series. For beginners, an openside flanker is a key position in the back row, focusing on tackling and stealing the ball from opponents.
Another newcomer to the starting team is Olly Cracknell, the 31-year-old earning his first cap against Argentina (explore that story here: https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/wales-newest-player-found-something-32857210). He'll anchor the team at number eight – that's the powerhouse role at the back of the scrum, requiring strength and leadership – while Aaron Wainwright, recovering from cramps, slots into the six position. Rounding out the forward pack, Archie Griffin and Nicky Smith start in the front row, with Rhys Carre and Keiron Assiratti ready on the bench. Dewi Lake remains at hooker, the player who throws the ball into the scrum and is vital for lineouts.
Head coach Steve Tandy has kept things steady elsewhere, maintaining the partnership of young fly-half Dan Edwards and scrum-half Tomos Williams in the half-backs. For those unfamiliar, the fly-half is like the quarterback of rugby, directing the team's attacks with passes and kicks. Edwards, from the Ospreys, didn't dominate last week's match but had a standout moment, bursting through the center with blistering speed before being stopped just short. He's even drawn comparisons to legendary Welsh star Jonathan 'Jiffy' Davies, as noted by ex-Wales player James Hook (check out the analysis here: https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/jac-morgans-six-nations-fate-32849476). Despite earning a yellow card for a questionable kick against Argentina, Ben Thomas holds onto the inside center spot, with Max Llewellyn steady at outside center. Tom Rogers makes way for Rees-Zammit in the back three, allowing Josh Adams another start and Blair Murray to continue at full-back, the position responsible for fielding kicks and coordinating defense.
In the pack, Dafydd Jenkins and Adam Beard team up as locks – the tall players who jump for the ball in lineouts – with Taine Plumtree and Nick Tompkins on the bench. This fixture carries massive weight for World Rugby Rankings and World Cup pools, adding enormous pressure on both sides to secure victory. And this is the part most people miss: with global competitions looming, a win here isn't just about bragging rights; it could shape the future of rugby for these nations.
Wales XV: Blair Murray; Louis Rees-Zammit, Max Llewellyn, Ben Thomas, Josh Adams; Dan Edwards, Tomos Williams; Nicky Smith, Dewi Lake, Archie Griffin, Dafydd Jenkins, Adam Beard, Aaron Wainwright, Alex Mann, Olly Cracknell.
Replacements: Liam Belcher, Rhys Carre, Keiron Assiratti, Freddie Thomas, Taine Plumtree, Kieran Hardy, Jarrod Evans, Nick Tompkins.
Stay updated with more insights as the press conference unfolds. Follow our channels for the latest Welsh rugby scoop: sign up for our free daily newsletter here (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/newsletter-preference-centre/?view=Solus&mailingListId=e90f3817-255f-4349-881b-d9a4515d3f52&utmsource=solusarticle), join our WhatsApp channel here (https://chat.whatsapp.com/L8kRCygN2HM6E7iILK0spC), or check us out on social media via X (https://x.com/WalesRugby), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Walesrugbynews/?locale=enGB), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/walesrugbyonline/?hl=en), and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@walesonlinerugby). For exclusive stories and deeper analysis, subscribe to the Inside Welsh Rugby Substack newsletter here (https://walesrugby.substack.com/subscribe?coupon=7b6a76da).
14:52 KEY EVENT
That's it for now, friends!
We'll be back first thing tomorrow with all the rugby updates as they break. Keep an eye on our site and social feeds for more stories popping up later today and tonight.
14:17 Dylan James
Ireland team to face Australia
Ireland: Mack Hansen; Tommy O’Brien, Robbie Henshaw, Stuart McCloskey, James Lowe; Sam Prendergast, Jamison Gibson-Park; Paddy McCarthy, Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, James Ryan, Tadhg Beirne, Ryan Baird, Caelan Doris (captain), Jack Conan.
Replacements: Rónan Kelleher, Andrew Porter, Thomas Clarkson, Nick Timoney, Cian Prendergast, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley, Bundee Aki.
- Date: Saturday November 15
- Venue: Aviva Stadium
14:00 Dylan James
Italy team to face South Africa
Italy: Ange Capuozzo; Louis Lynagh, Juan Ignacio Brex (captain), Tommaso Menoncello, Monty Ioane; Paolo Garbisi, Stephen Varney; Danilo Fischetti, Giacomo Nicotera, Marco Riccioni, Niccolò Cannone, Andrea Zambonin, Ross Vintcent, Manuel Zuliani, Lorenzo Cannone.
Replacements: Tommaso Di Bartolomeo, Mirco Spagnolo, Simone Ferrari, Federico Ruzza, Riccardo Favretto, David Odiase, Martin Page-Relo, Tommaso Allan.
- Date: Saturday, November 15
- Venue: Allianz Stadium, Turin
12:47 Dylan James
The Steve Tandy Q&A
Here's a taste of what Tandy shared post-announcement. For the full conversation, click here (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/steve-tandy-qa-starting-rees-32866390).
How significant was the loss of Jac Morgan?
"It's a major setback. Ultimately, he's an elite player and our guiding force. His display last weekend was exceptional. In our squad, his presence will be deeply felt.
It's not just his skills, but his character we'll miss. This opens doors for others to rise. Dewi has led the team previously. He's an inspiring figure with immense passion for Wales. Stepping into Jac's role, he's a solid choice.
With Jac, I sensed he was still riding the high of that try. It's a genuine hit. I noted some self-inflicted errors in the match, but this was unforeseen. Losing Jac diminishes the momentum, though others who came on adjusted brilliantly."
What's the timeline for his recovery?
"We'll monitor it closely. He's undergone scans and is scheduled for surgery. Recovery details will follow."
12:39 Dylan James
The verdict is in
Steffan Thomas offers his take on Steve Tandy's selections (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/verdict-wales-team-tandy-puts-32866355). Here's an excerpt.
Tandy trusts his strategy and key orchestrator
Major shake-ups would have meant rebuilding from scratch, so sticking close to the plan makes sense.
There were slip-ups in the previous game, and he dodged a red card for what appeared to be a kick at Argentina's captain, Pablo Matera, on the ground.
Still, he executed his core duty: rapid ball distribution to create openings for teammates.
12:30 Dylan James
South Africa team to face Italy
Boks: Damian Willemse; Edwill van der Merwe, Canan Moodie, Ethan Hooker, Kurt-Lee Arendse; Handre Pollard, Morne van den Berg; Boan Venter, Johan Grobbelaar, Zachary Porthen, Jean Kleyn, Franco Mostert, Siya Kolisi (c), Ben-Jason Dixon, Marco van Staden.
Replacements: Gerhard Steenekamp, Wilco Louw, RG Snyman, Ruan Nortje, Andre Esterhuizen, Kwagga Smith, Grant Williams, Manie Libbok.
12:19 Dylan James
Jac Morgan heading for surgery amid Six Nations concerns
Wales skipper Jac Morgan will have an operation on his dislocated shoulder, raising worries about missing the upcoming Six Nations (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/all-about/six-nations).
Dive deeper here (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/jac-morgan-set-surgery-steve-32866305).
But here's where it gets controversial: is prioritizing younger players like Rees-Zammit over established stars a bold risk or a smart long-term play? Some fans argue it injects fresh energy, while others fear it undermines experience in high-stakes matches. What do you think – does Wales' squad balance youth and wisdom effectively, or should they lean more on proven talents?
10:59 Dylan James
The complete team breakdown
Ben James delivers the full scoop on the squad (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/wales-team-v-japan-full-32864694). Excerpt below.
As first reported by WalesOnline on Wednesday (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/louis-rees-zammit-start-wales-32863802), Louis Rees-Zammit and Olly Cracknell enter the starting fifteen in place of Tom Rogers and the sidelined captain Jac Morgan. Cracknell moves to number eight, Wainwright to six, with Alex Mann shifting to openside.
With both Rees-Zammit and Cracknell in the mix, their bench spots go to seasoned pros: back-rower Taine Plumtree and center Nick Tompkins.
10:16 Dylan James
That's all for the moment
Tune in for reactions.
10:15 Dylan James
Is Tom Rogers ready to play?
Tandy - "Yes, he's good to go."
10:15 Dylan James
You coached him during the Lions tour; how's he evolved post-NFL?
Tandy - "I'm not certain, but from our chats, you grow up a lot. Zammo venturing out, it's tempting to stay comfortable. But facing a new, worldwide challenge reveals your true self. He could have joined the Lions tour instead.
Putting himself in that spotlight speaks volumes. He's likely reassessed his rugby strengths. That journey has been incredibly beneficial."
10:13 Dylan James
Thoughts on LRZ
Tandy - "Thrilling. He's been outstanding in camp. Leading exceptionally. His impact off the bench was superb. Training this week highlights his value. We need game-breakers, and Zammo fits perfectly."
10:13 Dylan James
You've kept changes minimal; aiming for stability?
Tandy - "Initially, cohesion is key. Many have limited caps. Against South Africa, we'll adjust. Overhauling after just two training weeks disrupts that unity. We wouldn't be preparing the squad properly with major shifts. We're not there yet."
10:12 Dylan James
Facing one of rugby's top coaches – what's that like?
Tandy - "It's not about the opponent. We're proud to compete. Exciting to test ourselves. But focus stays internal. This autumn will strengthen us. Learning is constant."
10:10 Dylan James
How does Japan differ from Argentina?
Tandy - "Completely. Test rugby's variety shines. Argentina excelled in the air; Japan emphasizes pace. We must address varied threats. Their quick, fluid style demands mental sharpness."
10:09 Dylan James
Crucial to secure a win before South Africa and New Zealand?
Tandy - "That's the reality. We aim to win every match. We understand our position. This is our chance for a strong showing. If we deliver, victory follows."
10:09 Dylan James
Views on the rankings?
Tandy - "Vital, always. Points are at stake. But we control our growth. Focus on improving from last week."
10:08 Dylan James
A note on Tommy Reffell?
Tandy - "We have talented sevens players. Josh Macleod, who featured in Japan, is out injured. I'd highlight Harri's excellence. His form deserves this. A boost for us."
10:07 Dylan James
Tandy on 12 of 23 players based abroad
Tandy - "A logistical challenge. Expected. Possible reinforcements before South Africa, but not planning too far. Concentrate on Saturday."
10:06 Dylan James
Update on Morgan's status?
Tandy - "We'll wait. Scans done, surgery pending."
10:06 Dylan James
Injury while scoring a try – ironic?
Tandy - "He seemed euphoric. Some errors were our fault, but this was accidental."
10:05 Dylan James
On Jac Morgan?
Tandy - "Significant loss. Elite talent and leader. His absence hurts. Opportunity for others. Dewi's passionate and Wales-dedicated."
10:05 Dylan James
Why tweak the front row?
Tandy - "Beneficial for seeing out the game. They performed well. Six-day gap allows rotation."
10:04 Dylan James
Including Cracknell?
Tandy - "Olly's impressive. Leicester experience has toughened him. Fully prepped after training. His background aids us."
10:04 Dylan James
Changes and LRZ inclusion?
Tandy - "Straightforward. His quality is undeniable."
10:03 Dylan James
Press conference underway
Tandy's speaking now.
09:30 Dylan James
More from Steve Tandy soon
Join us for his morning briefing.
09:29 Dylan James
Progress so far?
"We've seen glimpses of our desired style against Argentina," he noted.
"Plenty to celebrate – strong attack and physicality – but room for growth. Building on that for this weekend."
09:27 Dylan James
Dewi Lake as captain?
"Around camp, he's fantastic. Supports individuals. Drives the group. Sets training and off-field standards. Exceptional leader; he'll excel."
09:25 Dylan James
Steve Tandy on LRZ
"Louis Rees-Zammit joins on the wing. Minutes last weekend showed readiness for the starters."
And this is the part most people miss: with the World Cup qualifiers in mind, is Wales' coaching staff playing it too safe by not experimenting more, or is consistency the smarter bet against powerhouse teams? Do you agree with the selections, or would you have shaken things up differently? Share your thoughts in the comments – let's debate!
