The Wales Rugby Team is facing an evolution in 12 months time. Matt Sherratt has been confirmed as head coach going into the next tour to Japan. Following a grim 2025 Six Nations tournament, the squad endured a record run of 17-straight defeats. As such, faced with rising criticism Sherratt has named a completely new squad with 16 changes to inject new life into the once-promising team’s prospects.
The tour starts in July with two of those thrilling matches against Japan. The opening game will take place on July 5 in Kitakyushu, with the second on July 12 in Kobe. Sherratt expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to return and coach Wales again this summer.” He continued, “It will be an incredible experience to travel to Japan for two games in July. We’re as excited as you are to get back into camp and begin preparations for our 2017 summer campaign.
A New Leadership Structure
In a potentially landmark break, Dewi Lake has been named as captain for the tour. Under her leadership, the team will need to dig deep and try to regain confidence after last season’s struggles. Two-time Grand Slam captain Robin McBryde, along with forwards coaches Gethin Jenkins, Danny Wilson, Adam Jones and Rhys Thomas are supporting Sherratt on this odyssey. Joining will be the great Leigh Halfpenny in a kicking coach role, providing further expertise to this new coaching set-up.
Lake’s appointment as captain indicates a shift in the administration and on-field leadership of the Proteas. Fans and analysts alike will be scratching their heads to see how this leadership change will affect what happens on the field.
Fresh Faces and Key Absences
The squad features six uncapped players: Liam Belcher, Chris Coleman, Garyn Phillips, Keelan Giles, Reuben Morgan-Williams, and Macs Page. Their inclusion indicates a willingness from Sherratt to inject fresh talent into the team and provide opportunities for emerging players.
A number of recent favorites will not be on the roster. James Botham, Gareth Anscombe, Ellis Mee, Nick Tompkins and Max Llewellyn have all been omitted. To compound matters further, Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams are currently on tour in Australia with the British and Irish Lions.
Abi Tierney remarked on Sherratt’s impact during his brief tenure earlier this year, stating, “The impact and positive difference he made to the squad in a very short period of time during the Six Nations was welcomed.” This comment captures the optimism for what might develop and flourish with Sherratt’s leadership.
Looking Ahead
As the Wales Rugby Team prepares for its tour to Japan, anticipation surrounds the blend of experienced players and newcomers. Their response in the next few matches should offer a chance for the squad to come together and build a platform upon which they can produce their best showings.
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