Warren Gatland has recently unveiled his 34-man squad for the upcoming Six Nations tournament, introducing some surprises and notable changes. Among these, Ospreys’ Dan Edwards and Scarlets’ Ellis Mee have earned their spots as uncapped players, while Jac Morgan takes over as captain due to Dewi Lake’s injury. The squad also sees the return of key players like Taulupe Faletau, Josh Adams, and Liam Williams, setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead.
As Wales prepares for a challenging start to the Championship with a tough match in Paris, Gatland faces the task of selecting a formidable starting 23. Despite the odds, there is potential for a solid lineup on paper that could pose a threat to their opponents. With this in mind, let’s explore the strongest matchday squad Gatland could assemble for the opening fixture against France.
At full-back, the experienced and reliable Liam Williams stands out as the top choice with his exceptional skills under the high ball and attacking prowess. Alongside him, the return of Josh Adams on the wing brings a cutting edge to the team’s backline, providing a lethal finishing touch. In the midfield, Joe Roberts’ proficiency at centre and Owen Watkin’s defensive solidity make them strong contenders for the starting positions.
In the playmaking roles, Ben Thomas is likely to step up at fly-half following injuries to other options, while Tomos Williams is set to bring his attacking flair and game-changing abilities at scrum-half. In the forward pack, the ever-reliable Taulupe Faletau leads from the back of the scrum, supported by the dynamic duo of Jac Morgan and Aaron Wainwright in the flanker positions.
In the engine room, Will Rowlands and Dafydd Jenkins are expected to provide the physical presence and work rate needed in the second row, ensuring stability and dominance in the set pieces. Completing the front row, Keiron Assiratti, Elliot Dee, and Gareth Thomas offer scrummaging expertise and precision in the lineout to secure a strong foundation for Wales’ forward play.
As the game progresses, Gatland can rely on a solid bench with the likes of Sam Parry, Nicky Smith, and Henry Thomas ready to make an impact in the later stages. Additionally, the inclusion of rising talents such as Freddie Thomas, James Botham, and Rhodri Williams provides versatility and depth to the squad, ensuring Wales can adapt to any situation on the field.
Overall, Gatland’s selection showcases a mix of experience and youth, combining proven performers with emerging talents to form a well-rounded squad capable of competing at the highest level. With the Six Nations on the horizon, Welsh rugby fans can look forward to an exciting campaign as their team gears up to face the challenges that lie ahead.