We use essential cookies and third-party cookies for content.

The National Times - Under-pressure Gatland rings Wales changes for Six Nations

Under-pressure Gatland rings Wales changes for Six Nations

SPORTS 13.01.2025
Under-pressure Gatland rings Wales changes for Six Nations
Under-pressure Gatland rings Wales changes for Six Nations / Photo: © AFP

Wales coach Warren Gatland recalled the experienced trio of Josh Adams, Liam Williams and Taulupe Faletau to his squad on Monday ahead of what promises to be a make-or-break Six Nations for the veteran New Zealander.

Change text size:

Back-row Faletau has not played for Wales since the 2023 World Cup because of injury.

Jac Morgan, a flanker, takes over the captaincy from an injured Dewi Lake.

The uncapped duo of Scarlets wing Ellis Mee and Ospreys fly-half Dan Edwards have also been included in a 34-strong squad named by Gatland, 61.

This season's Autumn Nations fly-halves Gareth Anscombe and Sam Costelow are absent, however, with Costelow set to miss the whole tournament after suffering a shoulder injury playing for regional side Scarlets in their European Challenge Cup defeat by Gloucester on Friday.

Gatland, in his second spell as Wales coach, remains in charge after a dire 2024 that extended the side's losing streak to a national record 12 matches.

Wales' 45-12 drubbing by the Springboks in Cardiff in November also meant they finished a calendar year without a win for the first time since 1937.

They now have a tough start to the Six Nations, against France in Paris on January 31, but Gatland insisted: "We've selected a squad that we feel has a good blend of exciting young talent and experience."

Wales squad

Backs (15): Josh Adams, Ellis Bevan, Dan Edwards, Josh Hathaway, Eddie James, Ellis Mee, Blair Murray, Joe Roberts, Tom Rogers, Ben Thomas, Nick Tompkins, Owen Watkin, Liam Williams, Rhodri Williams, Tomos Williams

Forwards (19): Keiron Assiratti, James Botham, Elliot Dee, Taulupe Faletau, Dafydd Jenkins, WillGriff John, Evan Lloyd, Kemsley Mathias, Jac Morgan (capt), Sam Parry, Tommy Reffell, Will Rowlands, Nicky Smith, Gareth Thomas, Freddie Thomas, Henry Thomas, Christ Tshiunza, Aaron Wainwright, Teddy Williams

Coach: Warren Gatland (NZL)

T.Hancock--TNT

Featured

Maswanganyi Clarifies Pirates Allegiance Amidst Career Transition

Patrick Maswanganyi has addressed speculation surrounding his career by reaffirming that Orlando Pirates remains his dream club, despite growing up as a Kaizer Chiefs supporter. Speaking during an exclusive interview, the Bafana Bafana international also clarified the nature of his relationship with former coach Abdeslam Ouaddou following his recent exit from the Soweto giants.

Kuwait's Yasmeen Waleed Wins High Jump Gold at Dakar Youth Olympics

Kuwaiti athlete Yasmeen Waleed has won the gold medal in the high jump at the fourth Summer Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal. Her victory established a new Kuwaiti national record of 1.80 meters, marking a significant milestone for the nation's youth sports program.

Matvei Michkov Leads Flyers in Goals but Ranks Sixth in Ice Time

Matvei Michkov leads the Philadelphia Flyers with 10 goals through 20 games, but his total ice time ranks sixth among the team's forwards. Head coach Rick Tocchet has concentrated Michkov’s additional minutes on the power play, where he has scored five of his goals, while his even-strength usage has remained relatively stable compared to last season.

Northern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

The Northern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame (NCJSHOF) has announced its Class of 2026 inductees, honoring four individuals for their athletic achievements and community contributions. The organization will celebrate the new class during its 19th Annual Induction Dinner Gala on November 22 at the Olympic Golf Club in South San Francisco.

Change text size: