**Matt Sherratt Unveils Wales Team for Japan Test in Kitakyushu**
Wales’ interim head coach, Matt Sherratt, has today confirmed his squad selection for the highly anticipated first Test against Japan, set to take place this weekend at Mikuni World Stadium in Kitakyushu. The announcement comes amid growing scrutiny over team selection, as Wales looks to halt a worrying 17-match winless run, with pressure mounting as the rankings suggest further losses could see them slip as low as 14th worldwide.
In a string of bold choices, Sherratt has chosen to start with Alex Mann and Josh Macleod in the back row, leaving regular internationals Aaron Wainwright and Tommy Reffell – both seasoned players with considerable experience – named only on the bench. This decision hints at a strategic 6-2 bench split, a move designed to cope with Japan’s fast-paced game and the taxing climate expected on Saturday.
The starting line-up reveals only four survivors from the side that concluded the Six Nations against England, namely Nicky Smith, Taulupe Faletau, Ben Thomas, and Blair Murray. New inclusions and reshuffles throughout the team represent both risk and opportunity, as Wales desperately seeks to discover a winning formula on foreign soil.
Cardiff captain Liam Belcher is perhaps the feelgood story of the selection, finally poised to win his first cap after a decade in the trenches of domestic rugby. His journey, involving changes of club and even returning to university to pursue an electrician’s degree, was singled out for praise by Sherratt, who commented: “Players like Liam epitomise resilience and have worked their way back into contention. The squad was clearly delighted at his selection.”
Josh Macleod’s inclusion also tells a tale of perseverance, with injury setbacks having plagued his international ambitions for years. Sherratt paid tribute to Macleod’s determination, acknowledging the emotional response from the group at his return. This reflects Sherratt’s ethos of rewarding dedication and form, rather than relying solely on reputations.
The match itself comes at a crucial juncture for Wales’ rugby fortunes. Another defeat, this time to the Brave Blossoms on their own patch, would not only be a psychological blow, but could also see Wales fall below both Japan and Samoa in World Rugby’s official rankings. This fixture has attracted additional attention after Japan’s heavy second-half collapse against the Maori All Blacks last week, suggesting Sherratt’s late-game reinforcements may be a deliberate attempt to exploit any repeat weaknesses.
Across the field, Japan, led by head coach Eddie Jones, have announced a full-strength side, with Michael Leitch captaining from the back row. The home line-up features Takuro Matsunaga at fullback, a lively back three, and a mixture of powerful forwards. Their replacements bench also offers depth, with options like Ben Gunter and Shuntaro Kitamura ready to make an impact.
Wales’ full line-up sees Blair Murray start at full-back, joined by Tom Rogers and Josh Adams on the wings. Johnny Williams and Ben Thomas form the midfield pairing, with Sam Costelow and Kieran Hardy managing the half-back duties. Up front, the front row is made up of Nicky Smith, Dewi Lake and Keiron Assiratti, while the second row combines Ben Carter and Teddy Williams. The back row, somewhat controversially, starts with Alex Mann, Josh Macleod, and the combative Taulupe Faletau.
The bench presents notable firepower, including Wainwright and Reffell, and seasoned campaigners like Gareth Thomas and Rhodri Williams. There is a sense of tactical flexibility, with the squad apparently built for endurance and impact as the match progresses and conditions take their toll.
As the countdown to kick-off begins, all eyes are firmly on Sherratt and his selections, as they seek not only to restore pride but to instil belief in a side that has faced a barrage of questions in recent months. Saturday’s encounter promises to be a stern test of resolve, adaptability and ambition – ingredients in sore need for Welsh rugby as they seek to turn the tide in Kitakyushu.