Matt Sherratt, the interim head coach of Wales, is facing a daunting task as he prepares to lead the team against Ireland in the Six Nations. After just a few days in his new role, Sherratt has wasted no time in shuffling the squad by adding players like Max Llewellyn, Gareth Anscombe, and Jarrod Evans. With the match against Ireland looming, Sherratt is expected to finalise his lineup soon. Here is the potential Wales XV that Sherratt could select for the crucial clash with Ireland.
At fullback, Tom Rogers is a strong contender due to his aerial skills and ability to counter-attack effectively. On the wings, Blair Murray’s attacking prowess and Max Llewellyn’s versatility as a powerful centre/wing make them vital assets. Ben Thomas is likely to feature at inside centre, bringing his playmaking skills and passing game into play. Josh Adams, despite recent inconsistencies, is expected to provide experience and reliability on the wing.
In the playmaker role, Gareth Anscombe’s experience and game management skills could be crucial for Wales. Partnering him at scrum-half, Tomos Williams is expected to inject pace and creativity into the game. The forward pack is set to be led by Taulupe Faletau, a seasoned performer known for his hard-hitting style of play. Jac Morgan and Aaron Wainwright are likely to complete the back row, offering a balanced mix of athleticism and physicality.
In the engine room, locks Teddy Williams and Dafydd Jenkins are poised to provide stability and set-piece prowess. The front row could feature Keiron Assiratti, Elliot Dee, and Gareth Thomas, offering a strong scrummaging platform and lineout efficiency. The substitutes bench is anticipated to include impact players like Evan Lloyd, Nicky Smith, and Will Rowlands to provide depth and versatility.
As Sherratt finalizes his selection, the focus will be on crafting a cohesive team that can rise to the challenge against Ireland. With key players in form and tactical adjustments in place, Wales will aim to put in a strong performance under Sherratt’s leadership. The Principality Stadium will be the battleground where Wales looks to make a statement and secure a vital victory in the Six Nations campaign.