**Wales Rugby Faces Final Test in Japan as Sherratt Makes Bold Selections**
Welsh rugby finds itself at a pivotal moment this week as Matt Sherratt, still operating under the “interim head coach” tag, stakes everything on his final team selection of the season. After a devastating sequence of eighteen consecutive Test defeats, Wales travel to Kobe, desperate not only to halt their slide but to prevent a rare winless campaign from becoming reality.
Last weekend’s loss against Japan in Kitakyushu was especially painful for the travelling side. Wales looked set for long-awaited relief, having crossed the half-way bell in front, only for the familiar spectres of missed opportunities and mounting pressure to see the match slip away in the final stages. That defeat has left fans and pundits questioning the team’s mental strength and technical decision-making under duress.
Sherratt’s response to this crisis has been swift, opting for four alterations in his starting line-up in the hopes of discovering the elusive winning formula. However, his hand has been somewhat forced by the omission of Taulupe Faletau, who was exceptional in Kitakyushu before being sidelined by heat-related cramps. Faletau’s absence, after leading the team in ball carries and consistently breaking the gain line, will be sorely felt and places even greater emphasis on the pack’s resilience.
Observers believe the tactical blueprint will remain largely pragmatic. Wales will have to execute a disciplined and accurate kicking game, with territorial control seen as crucial against a Japanese outfit renowned for its energy and speed. Playing Japan at their own high-tempo game rarely ends well for opposition sides, especially in stifling summer conditions where fatigue becomes a key factor.
Much scrutiny centres on the Welsh half-backs. Kieran Hardy drew criticism for his performance last week, and both he and Dan Edwards — selected ahead of Sam Costelow — must find cohesion. Edwards, in particular, shoulders the responsibility of choosing when to release Wales’ backs and when to play conservatively, along with goal-kicking duties that could prove decisive if the match remains close deep into the second half.
Scrummaging issues were a major feature in the latter stages of the last encounter, as Japan’s front row applied relentless pressure. Keiron Assiratti’s demotion in favour of Archie Griffin is telling. While Archie Griffin, still only 23, has not been entirely convincing at scrum time — memorably being lifted clear last weekend — his value is in his dynamism in open play. Griffin is capable of huge defensive efforts, as illustrated with his remarkable 26 tackles in last year’s clash against Australia, and provides Wales with a competitive edge around the pitch, if he can anchor the scrum effectively.
The inclusion of Freddie Thomas at lock also piques interest. Thomas, who has thrived as a mobile second row with Gloucester, is said by some — including former coach Warren Gatland — to possess the attributes of a blindside flanker. His agility and sharp offloading could suit the Japanese threat, particularly when play moves into wider channels.
While debate continues about potential changes in the Welsh midfield, Sherratt has retained faith in Ben Thomas and Johnny Williams, who struggled defensively during last week’s fixture. The expectation is that tactical shifts will be subtle rather than dramatic; set-piece solidity and precise kicking are the bedrock upon which Wales must rebuild.
Ultimately, Saturday’s contest is about much more than breaking a losing sequence or redeeming reputations — it is a test of character. Can Wales summon the composure, execution, and belief required to reverse their fortunes? For Sherratt and his men, there can be no room for error or hesitation. This is their last roll of the dice before a long and difficult summer draws to a close, with both pride and future prospects very much on the line.