## Welsh Rugby’s Next Lions: Who Could Shine for the British and Irish Lions in 2029?
The dust is still settling from the British and Irish Lions’ tough series defeat in Australia, but conversations are already turning to the future—more specifically, which Welsh stars could earn a seat on the plane for the 2029 Lions tour of New Zealand.
A mere two Welsh players—Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams—featured in this summer’s Lions squad, sparking concern within Welsh rugby circles. As the Welsh Rugby Union faces questions about its representation at the very top of the game, the next four years present a valuable chance for a fresh crop of talent to stake their claim for Lions honours.
### A Call to Action for Welsh Players
Lions chairman Ieuan Evans did not mince his words in the aftermath of the defeat, expressing both disappointment and hope. “That needs to drive players to say, ‘OK, I want a piece of the action. I want to be playing in four years’ time in New Zealand,'” remarked Evans, himself a former Lions and Wales wing. While the future of Welsh involvement may be in question, it also presents a tantalising challenge for the nation’s brightest prospects.
### Returning Superstar: Louis Rees-Zammit
Among those eyed for a potential Lions resurgence is the explosive Louis Rees-Zammit. After a bold 18-month stint pursuing a career in America’s NFL, the flying winger is set to return to rugby union—a move certain to excite both fans and coaches alike. Rees-Zammit, only 24, has yet to confirm which club he’ll join, though rumours suggest interest in the new R360 competition. Regardless of where he plays his club rugby, few would bet against the young star, whose blistering pace and finishing ability have previously set him apart, from re-joining the Lions fold for 2029.
### Jac Morgan: A Standout Candidate
One name almost guaranteed to remain in Lions contention is Jac Morgan. The versatile flanker, who claimed headlines for his commanding displays in Australia and a crucial intervention in Melbourne, represents the best of current Welsh rugby. Barring injury, Morgan—who will be 29 come the next tour—has every opportunity to build on his international experience and further cement his Lions legacy.
### The Unlucky: Dewi Lake
Hooker Dewi Lake can count himself somewhat unfortunate not to have been called up this time around, particularly after England’s Luke Cowan-Dickie withdrew through injury. Lake’s robust carrying, set-piece reliability, and tactical awareness make him a key asset for both club and country. Now 26, he should be entering his prime by 2029, and the Lions remains an achievable target—for both merit and redemption.
### Rising Star: Morgan Morse
Perhaps the most exciting Welsh prospect on the horizon is Morgan Morse. Only 20 years old and not yet a permanent Ospreys starter, Morse has already drawn superlatives from coaches and players alike. Renowned as the finest upcoming talent in Wales, his athleticism, strength, and game intelligence mark him as a player with genuine ‘X-factor.’ If his progression continues, few doubt Morse could eventually don the famous red of the Lions.
### The Leadership of Dafydd Jenkins
Dafydd Jenkins, meanwhile, offers another promising route for Welsh hopes. Recently turned 22, Jenkins has weathered turbulent times for Wales but has grown in stature, even captaining his country during the Six Nations at a tender age. His work rate and physicality, alongside his leadership qualities, suggest a player built for rugby’s biggest stages—Lions included.
### Building for the Future
The pathway to Lions selection is never straightforward. Injuries, form, and the ever-shifting landscape of international rugby mean new names could emerge while established stars fall away. Other young Welsh talents or late bloomers may yet find themselves in contention over the coming seasons.
### A Crucial Period for Welsh Rugby
With representation at stake and the pride of a rugby-mad nation on the line, the next four years will be pivotal. Welsh players—both established names and ambitious youngsters—have an opportunity to not only revitalise their own prospects, but also help restore their nation’s standing within the Lions set-up.
As preparations for the 2029 tour slowly begin, the question remains: who from Wales will rise to the challenge and seize their chance on rugby’s grandest stage? Only time will tell, but the talent is certainly there.