Wales have confirmed their squad for the upcoming summer tour of Japan, with interim head coach Matt Sherratt naming six uncapped players in a fresh-faced group that blends promise with proven experience.
Liam Belcher, Chris Coleman, Garyn Phillips, Keelan Giles, Reuben Morgan-Williams, and Macs Page are all set for their first taste of senior international rugby, as Wales look to build depth and momentum heading into the next World Cup cycle.
Leading the squad will be Dewi Lake, who has been appointed captain for the tour — a clear indication of his growing leadership role within the national set-up.
There’s also a return for Josh Macleod, the Scarlets skipper, who could make his first international appearance since 2022. Fly-half Sam Costelow is back in contention after missing the Six Nations through injury, while Dan Edwards is also named at fly-half.
Elsewhere, Cameron Winnett returns to the international fold after being left out of the Six Nations squad earlier this year, and Alex Mann is back after a standout campaign during the 2024 Championship.
Among the most notable comebacks is that of 23-year-old prop Archie Griffin. The Bath front-rower impressed during last summer’s tour of Australia and now returns from injury to bolster the pack.
However, there are several high-profile omissions. James Botham, Gareth Anscombe, Ellis Mee, Nick Tompkins, and Max Llewellyn — all of whom featured in the Six Nations — have been left out of the touring party.
Full Wales squad for the Japan tour
Forwards:
Keiron Assiratti, Liam Belcher, Ben Carter, Chris Coleman, Elliot Dee, Taulupe Faletau, Archie Griffin, Dewi Lake (captain), Josh Macleod, Alex Mann, Garyn Phillips, Taine Plumtree, James Ratti, Tommy Reffell, Nicky Smith, Gareth Thomas, Freddie Thomas, Aaron Wainwright, Teddy Williams.
Backs:
Josh Adams, Sam Costelow, Dan Edwards, Keelan Giles, Kieran Hardy, Reuben Morgan-Williams, Blair Murray, Macs Page, Joe Roberts, Tom Rogers, Ben Thomas, Johnny Williams, Rhodri Williams, Cameron Winnett.
A press conference is expected shortly, during which Sherratt will provide further insight into his selections and plans for the tour. Stay with us for ongoing updates.
