**Wales Rugby Team Announcement: Faletau Sidelined as Major Changes Unveiled for Second Japan Test**
Wales have revealed a significantly reshuffled side for their second Test against Japan in Kobe this Saturday, with veteran number eight Taulupe Faletau missing out due to fitness concerns. The experienced Cardiff forward had endured issues with cramp during last week’s fixture, prompting team management to err on the side of caution and omit him from the matchday squad.
Aaron Wainwright steps into the crucial No. 8 role, taking over from the 34-year-old Faletau at the base of the scrum. Wainwright’s promotion is one of several key alterations as Wales look to recover from last weekend’s 24-19 defeat in Kitakyushu—a loss that saw their Test losing streak extend to 18 matches and left them sliding to 14th in the world rankings.
In the forwards, head coach Matt Sherratt has had to contend with further selection dilemmas. Freddie Thomas is drafted into the second row to fill the void left by the injured Ben Carter, while Archie Griffin gets the nod at tighthead prop ahead of Keiron Assiratti, who has struggled with fitness this week. These personnel shifts are aimed at injecting new energy and addressing the set-piece issues that hampered Wales against Japan previously.
Within the backline, there is a notable change at fly-half. Dan Edwards, representing the Ospreys, is handed his first start in the number 10 shirt for only his third international appearance. Edwards replaces Sam Costelow, with Kieran Hardy retained at scrum-half. The youthful pairing in the halves signals a focus on giving emerging talent further experience at the highest level, especially as Wales look to ambitiously reverse their fortunes on tour.
Sherratt commented on the selection, stating, “It was important to freshen things up and reward those who have impressed in training. Dan [Edwards] has been outstanding through the camp and deserves his chance to start, while injuries have forced us to seek solutions elsewhere in the squad. This also allows new faces an opportunity to step up and make their mark.”
Among the replacements, debut opportunities await for three players. Dragons prop Chris Coleman and Ospreys duo Reuben Morgan-Williams and Keelan Giles are all poised for their first caps if called upon. Giles’ potential debut is particularly poignant; he was close to featuring in 2016 during a previous tour to Japan, only to miss out, and has repeatedly seen his hopes dashed due to injury or selection decisions in subsequent tours.
The Wales bench also includes familiar faces, such as Liam Belcher, who retained his spot following his own debut last week. This blend of established and aspiring talent encapsulates the transitional phase currently underway within Welsh rugby.
As for team preparation, Sherratt acknowledged the challenges presented by Kobe’s conditions. “Playing under a closed roof can alter the dynamics—the ball can get slippery, and the heat is always a factor. We’re expecting a vibrant atmosphere, with passionate local support for rugby here in Japan.”
The full Wales side to face Japan features Blair Murray at full-back, with Tom Rogers and Josh Adams on the wings. Johnny Williams and Ben Thomas form the midfield partnership, while up front, Dewi Lake captains the side at hooker between Nicky Smith and Archie Griffin. The second row pairs Freddie Thomas with Teddy Williams, and the back row is completed by Alex Mann and Josh Macleod joining Wainwright.
Sherratt’s tactical adjustments and the blend of youth and experience encapsulate the ongoing rebuilding phase for Wales, as they seek to end their protracted winless streak and realign with world rugby’s elite. The second Test in Kobe represents a fresh chance for players and coaches alike to demonstrate progress and resilience on the international stage.
Supporters and pundits alike will be watching closely on Saturday to see if these changes can spark the revival the Welsh camp so keenly desires, and whether the fresh faces in the matchday squad can seize their opportunity as the national side strives for an overdue victory.