**Wales Squad Selection Baffles Rugby Followers as Promising Players Miss Out**
As Wales gears up for their summer tour of Japan, the announcement of Matt Sherratt’s 33-man squad has created a wave of debate across the country’s rugby circles. While selection day is a moment of jubilation for those picked, it inevitably brings heartbreak for others – particularly for a handful of players whose exclusion has left fans and pundits equally mystified.
Among the omitted, Ospreys back-rower Morgan Morse is arguably the biggest talking point. Widely recognised as a generational talent at just 20 years old, Morse has turned heads with his explosive running, physical presence and rugby smarts throughout the season. Many had tipped him not only as a future star but as someone who could make an immediate impact in Japan. Yet, Sherratt – leading the squad as interim head coach – has opted for experience and immediate results over strategic future planning.
The decision is especially perplexing given that Morse’s versatility allows him to cover all positions in the back row. He also brings a style of play distinct from the other No.8 options, with his dynamic ball-carrying and ferocity at the breakdown making him a unique asset. However, stalwarts like Taulupe Faletau and Aaron Wainwright have held their places, while Taine Plumtree provides additional cover. Even more confounding is Morse’s omission from the expanded Wales U20s squad, suggesting his international absence this summer will be total.
Another name conspicuous by his absence is James Fender. The physically imposing Ospreys lock had previously caught the eye of head coach Warren Gatland, but persistent injuries have so far kept him off the international stage. Known for his rugged defensive tackle count, dominant lineout work, and substantial physicality, Fender seemed a natural candidate, especially with established names like Will Rowlands and Adam Beard missing from selection. Yet, Sherratt has opted for a more mobile approach among his second rows, entrusting athletic options like Teddy Williams from Cardiff and Gloucester’s Freddie Thomas, while Fender must bide his time and stay injury-free in the hopes of future selection.
The omission of Cardiff back row James Botham has also stirred debate, particularly as he has produced consistent performances in an otherwise tough season for both club and country. Despite being a familiar face under Sherratt’s tenure at Cardiff, Botham faces stiff competition in a position brimming with Welsh talent. Tommy Reffell was always a likely pick, and Scarlets captain Josh Macleod’s strong domestic form has been rewarded, while Alex Mann also benefits from a recall. Botham’s athleticism, power and versatility across the back row might have proven a useful bolstering of the squad, but for now, his international ambitions are on hold.
In the front row, Scarlets hooker Ryan Elias is another unlucky figure to miss out. The 30-year-old, often the subject of scrutiny from some quarters of the Welsh rugby public, has silenced doubters with a string of powerful performances since recovering from injury, most notably in Scarlets’ memorable win over Leinster. However, the recall of Cardiff captain Liam Belcher – joined by Dewi Lake and Elliot Dee – has blocked Elias’ route back into the national setup. While a break may refresh him ahead of the next campaign, some believe his blend of size, scrummaging ability and impact in the loose would have benefited Wales on tour.
Another player cited by many as hard done by is Ellis Mee. The Scarlets wing impressed on debut against Ireland, although some tough spells against Scotland and England followed. Mee’s recent form at club level – particularly in notable victories over Leinster and the Lions at altitude in Johannesburg – highlights his reliability under the high ball and defensive strength. Nevertheless, Ospreys flyer Keelan Giles’ blistering pace has secured him a spot, despite concerns about his defensive frailties, notably against the Sharks. Mee’s sound fundamentals suggest he remains on the radar, but for this summer at least, his journey takes a pause.
The current Wales squad is not without merit – balancing experience with youthful promise and offering players like Josh Macleod and Keelan Giles overdue opportunities. But for those who narrowly missed the cut, the sense of missed opportunity is palpable, with many in the rugby community questioning whether some selections have prioritised immediate objectives over broader talent development.
Ultimately, selection dilemmas are an inevitable part of international rugby. While Sherratt’s focus is understandably on securing wins in Japan, time will tell if overlooking some of Wales’ brightest prospects proves to be a masterstroke or a missed opportunity. For the unlucky few, the challenge is now to regroup, make their mark domestically, and ensure they cannot be ignored when the next international window opens.
The debate over squad selection is far from settled, sparking crucial conversations about the direction in which Welsh rugby should head as it seeks to rebuild and compete at the highest level. In the meantime, those left behind will surely be doing all they can to ensure they return stronger – and less easy to overlook – in the months ahead.