## Rising Stars of Super Rygbi Cymru: The New Faces Shaping Welsh Rugby’s Future
As the inaugural Super Rygbi Cymru (SRC) season concludes, attention now turns to the emerging young talents who have lit up the competition and appear poised to take the next step in their professional careers. The season ended with Newport lifting the trophy after a hard-fought final against Ebbw Vale, but perhaps the most significant story to emerge over recent months has been the unveiling of a new wave of Welsh rugby prospects.
Following initial scepticism about the competition’s merit—largely due to the exclusion of traditional clubs such as Neath and Pontypridd—critics now recognise that SRC has provided a more coherent developmental pathway than the old Welsh Premiership. While there remains room for improvement, this reformed league structure has provided a valuable stage for the country’s brightest young talent to flourish.
Among the most talked-about prospects is **Iori Badham**, the talented 20-year-old full-back from Carmarthen Quins. Badham began the season in fine form, only to be curtailed by a knee injury that forced him out of both the SRC run-in and the Wales Under-20s Six Nations campaign. Unfortunately, this same injury will see Badham miss the upcoming U20 World Cup as well. Despite his misfortune, Badham’s reputation continues to soar. Those within Welsh rugby’s hierarchy have even drawn comparisons to Leigh Halfpenny, highlighting his assuredness under the high ball, defensive strength, and ability to spark attacks as a broken-field runner. Given his skill set, increased opportunities with the Scarlets are expected in the coming seasons.
Another to watch is **Will Evans** of Llandovery, a 19-year-old second-row with a formidable physical presence—standing 6ft 5in and weighing 18st 5lb. Evans quickly became one of the competition’s standout forwards, evidenced by his player-of-the-match performance against Pontypool back in September. Praised for his resilience and willingness to do the rugged, unseen work in the engine room, Evans is also a potent ball-carrier and has reportedly caught the eye of the Scarlets hierarchy. It’s speculated that the return of seasoned lock Jake Ball to the club could be integral to Evans’ development, offering invaluable on-the-job mentorship as Evans moves towards regular United Rugby Championship (URC) exposure.
In the back line, **Elijah Evans** from Cardiff RFC has rapidly gained plaudits for his dynamic performances this season. At just 19, the industrious centre—who previously represented Pentyrch RFC and Cardiff Met—has built a reputation for incisive running lines, defensive acumen, and excellent distribution. His ability to consistently break the gain line makes him a danger with ball in hand. Already recognised at U20 international level, club insiders believe that Evans is set to follow in the footsteps of previous standout Cardiff midfielders and could see competitive URC action before long.
Equally notable is **Harri Houston** of Swansea RFC, an electrifying 21-year-old wing with a proven knack for unlocking defences. Having been a part of the national U20 set-up, Houston’s speed, agility and sharp finishing have made him a vital asset for Swansea in this year’s competition. While the Ospreys’ senior wing positions remain fiercely contested, Houston’s unique attacking flair—marked by his ability to create opportunities from nothing—means he is firmly in the conversation for future selection.
**Harry Rees-Weldon** is another name generating excitement, particularly among Dragons supporters. The 20-year-old wing originally made his mark with Ebbw Vale before stepping into the Dragons first team and asserting himself at the U20 international level, including a memorable try against England U20s at Cardiff Arms Park. Drawing comparisons to George North for his robust running and finishing ability, Rees-Weldon offers a combination of aerial prowess, defensive reliability and out-and-out pace. High hopes are pinned on him eventually becoming a Wales international.
From a broader perspective, the overhaul of the semi-professional rugby landscape appears to be paying dividends. Despite its teething problems and the need for greater inclusivity among traditional clubs, Super Rygbi Cymru has revitalised the route from grassroots to the elite level, affording Wales’ next generation ample opportunity to hone their crafts against robust domestic competition.
As clubs gear up for next season, supporters and coaches alike are eager to watch these developing talents continue their ascent. The SRC’s first year may have closed, but the stories of Iori Badham, Will Evans, Elijah Evans, Harri Houston and Harry Rees-Weldon are still being written—offering new hope for those invested in the future of Welsh rugby.