🔗 Share this article

Louis Rees-Zammit is poised to make an international rugby comeback with Wales next month, almost 21 months after he left the game in pursuit of a dream in the United States. Aged 24, Rees-Zammit is included among a 39-man selection picked by new national coach Tandy.

American Football Chapter Closes

This dynamic winger, who previously featured for Wales at the 2023 World Cup, transitioned to U.S. football at the start of last year however finally was unable to appear in an official league match. He resumed his the sport in August by signing with the Prem team Bristol Bears.

While he has sat out his club’s last two matches due to a foot injury, it is not anticipated to miss extended time. The Welsh team is set to start their fall campaign facing Argentina next month, then meeting the Brave Blossoms, the All Blacks, and South Africa.

Squad Overhaul Under Tandy

Tandy, until recently coach with Scotland, has named front-rower Rhys Carré, who had been barred to represent Wales under the rule which demands players based outside Wales to have at least 25 test matches. He has made 20 caps and now meets the criteria since no get a decent contract to remain in Wales when he returned to London in 2023.

Included as well are five new talent: front-rower Coghlan, Ospreys lock Fender, back-rower Morgan Morse, tighthead Southworth, midfielder Hennessey. The group will be led by flanker Jac Morgan.

“It’s been really exciting assessing the options and understanding the depth of talent we have,” commented the coach. “We have a great balance of some young guys coming in, mixed with older heads as well. My overall impression is full of promise and I’m eager to get the boys in training next week.”

Absences and Retirements

Experienced second-row Rowlands, who has earned 41 test matches for his country, is not included after announcing end his career with Wales. In addition, Winnett and Keelan Giles were unavailable for the squad because of injuries.

Meanwhile, National boss Townsend has selected a 45-man squad featuring three debut forwards: McConnell, Morris, and Montpellier’s Alexander Masibaka. Bradbury returns for selection for a Test cap for the first time in years. The Scots will start their international campaign versus the Eagles, before matches against the All Blacks, the Pumas, and the Ikale Tahi.