**Wales Rugby Round-up: Gethin Jenkins Returns, Young Talent Eyeing Spotlight, and WRU Overhauls Club Funding**
Rugby in Wales is never short of drama or intrigue, and the latest headlines offer fresh insights into both the national setup and the grassroots game. With the summer tour to Japan on the horizon and new initiatives announced for community clubs, there is no shortage of talking points for fans and pundits alike.
One of the day’s major stories centres on Gethin Jenkins, a former Wales and British & Irish Lions prop, who has made a notable return to the national team’s coaching ranks. Jenkins, set to oversee defensive duties for Wales’ two-Test tour of Japan, revealed that he hesitated before accepting the position. Speaking candidly, Jenkins noted that after previously exiting the international scene in 2022, he had to weigh up the opportunity carefully before committing to the temporary role once again.
“It was a decision that required some thought,” Jenkins commented. “Ultimately, the chance to work alongside people like Matt Sherratt, and to represent Wales again, was too significant to pass up. Although it means giving up some downtime this summer, rugby is never far from my mind. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in once more.”
Jenkins was upfront about his feelings towards the intensity of international rugby, admitting he hadn’t particularly missed the unique pressures and had instead enjoyed honing his craft at Cardiff RFC. However, he believes that his time at club level has improved him as a coach, offering valuable week-in, week-out learning experiences that have contributed to his professional growth. As Wales gears up for its Japanese challenge, Jenkins is keen to apply these fresh perspectives to the international stage.
Meanwhile, the focus is also on the next generation of Welsh prospects. Scarlets academy back Elis Price embodies the spirit of youthful ambition as he travels with the Wales squad to Italy for the World Rugby U20 Championship. Price, who can operate at fly-half or centre, missed out on national selection last year. However, he is determined to seize this opportunity, drawing inspiration from his older brother Jac, now a senior player at the Scarlets and a former U20 victor over the All Blacks.
“Missing out last year was tough, but I feel I’ve come back stronger,” Price remarked. “There’s a real buzz amongst the group, and I’m eager to contribute. There’s plenty of talent in the squad, and we believe we can make a significant impact at the tournament.”
His academy colleague, Jac Pritchard, shared similar sentiments, emphasising the pride felt by his family over his achievements and his determination to build on the legacy set by his own brother. These stories highlight the close-knit, aspirational atmosphere within Welsh rugby’s emerging ranks.
Elsewhere, British & Irish Lions forward Ollie Chessum has sounded a cautionary note ahead of the tourists’ first game in Australia. Chessum, preparing for his Lions debut against Western Force, stressed that every opposition side would be desperate to claim the scalp of the famous touring side. “For the teams we face, this could be a once-in-a-lifetime moment,” Chessum said, underscoring the sense of occasion that attends every Lions contest.
Amid the flurry of international news, a significant shift is also under way at grassroots level. The Welsh Rugby Union has announced a comprehensive overhaul of how funding is distributed to its 276 community clubs. While the total pool of £2.84 million remains unchanged, clubs will now be assessed on a broader range of criteria beyond just on-field results. Governance, inclusivity, and community engagement will all play a role in determining financial support.
WRU board member John Manders described the changes as transformative, highlighting a move towards rewarding those clubs that are successful both on and off the pitch. After a year-long consultation, the new model will take full effect by the 2026/27 season, aiming to foster resilient, sustainable, and well-integrated clubs across Wales.
Targets have been set for 2030, including requirements for almost all clubs to implement development and equality plans, as well as regular self-assessment procedures. A five-tier accreditation scheme will help track progress and provide further incentives for good governance and volunteer development.
A new volunteer coordinator role is also being created, with the aim of bolstering support for those who give up their time for Welsh rugby’s grassroots. This move recognises that the strength of the national game is built upon the efforts of countless volunteers across the country.
With experienced coaches returning, young stars making their mark, and future-proofing measures in place for community rugby, Welsh rugby appears to be moving forward both on and off the field. As always, supporters will be watching closely to see how these changes translate into success at every level of the sport.