**WRU Contemplates Rees-Zammit’s Return as Tandy Sets Welsh Lions Ambitions**
The Welsh Rugby Union is not dismissing hopes of enticing Louis Rees-Zammit back to the Welsh club scene, with CEO Abi Tierney confirming that discussions are ongoing as the international winger weighs his options for the new season. These developments emerge alongside new head coach Steve Tandy’s aspirations to increase Wales’ representation on the next British & Irish Lions tour.
Rees-Zammit, who returns to rugby after a bold 18-month stint pursuing an NFL career in the United States, is at the centre of speculation. The 24-year-old, capped 32 times for Wales, saw opportunities with both the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars, but ultimately has chosen to resume his rugby career. With Bristol Bears and his former club Gloucester already surfaced as interested parties, the question of whether he could sign for a Welsh region remains front and centre.
Speaking to media on Thursday, Tierney expressed enthusiasm at having Rees-Zammit back in rugby, noting the immediate boost for the national side. “Louis’s return is a positive for Welsh rugby at every level, especially the national team,” she said. However, she emphasised the complexity of the current club landscape, with salary caps and player recruitment strategies affecting how Welsh regions may pursue marquee signings. Tierney added, “We are in contact with Louis and exploring what is possible, but he’ll have plenty of options to consider.”
This uncertainty echoes the comments from former Wales captain Sam Warburton, who recently insisted the WRU should go all out to secure Rees-Zammit for a Welsh side. Speaking to Sky Sports, Warburton acknowledged the timescales and structural questions facing the regions, but argued, “It would be tremendous for Welsh rugby and a real statement to bring him back home. Realistically, every effort should be made, within reason, to make it happen.”
Beyond player recruitment, new Wales head coach Steve Tandy is also setting his sights on the future. Tandy has stated he wants to see significantly more Welsh talent in the British & Irish Lions touring party for New Zealand in 2029. Only two Welsh players made the cut for the Lions’ recent tour under Andy Farrell, a figure Tandy hopes to greatly improve. “The Lions remains the highest honour in rugby,” he remarked. “Two representatives is still an achievement, but I’m determined to see Welsh numbers rise next time around.”
Tandy reflected on his previous experience with Scotland, recalling the pride felt when eight or nine players were chosen for Lions duty. “A big influence comes from how connected we are with our players,” he said, highlighting the importance of collaborative development and player ambition within the national setup. Tandy emphasised that enhancing these connections could provide the springboard for greater representation at the sport’s highest levels.
Meanwhile, domestic hopes are also riding high at Cardiff, where flanker Dan Thomas has spoken of a renewed hunger following an encouraging United Rugby Championship campaign. Having joined last summer after more than a decade at Bristol, Thomas now sees the squad as determined to go one better and reach the league play-offs after narrowly missing out. “After last season, everyone is motivated—we know what progress looks like, and we’re eager for more,” Thomas said.
He credits the attacking style brought in by the coaching staff, which suits both his game and the club’s ethos. “Winning is addictive,” Thomas commented, expressing a belief that sustained form could translate into a genuine shot at silverware. The collective ambition at Cardiff, according to Thomas, is now stronger than ever.
On the international stage, South African rugby has been struck by the news that Springbok Women’s flanker Lusanda Dumke is stepping away from the sport due to ongoing health concerns. Dumke, a key figure with 33 caps and leadership of the Isuzu Bulls Daisies, leaves a significant void in the squad just weeks before the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Both the Bulls and national coaching staff have voiced support for Dumke’s decision, praising her impact and wishing her a full recovery.
As these stories unfold, the rugby world watches closely, with player movements and leadership choices promising to shape the fortunes of Welsh and global rugby in the pivotal seasons ahead.