Rees-Zammit Returns: Starts for Wales vs Japan After NFL Adventure

Louis Rees-Zammit returns to the starting lineup with Wales, marking his first start since his foray into American football. This Saturday, the Welsh team will face Japan in Cardiff. The talented wing, who joined the Bristol team this season after his time with the Kansas City Chiefs and the Jacksonville Jaguars, has been selected by Steve Tandy for the second match of the Quilter Nations Series at the Principality Stadium. At 24 years old, Rees-Zammit already had his first appearance with Wales since the 2023 World Cup, coming off the bench in the 52-28 defeat against Argentina last Sunday.

Louis Rees-Zammit titular contra Gales. Gaspafotos/MB Media/Getty Images

The injury to captain Jac Morgan has caused changes in the lineup. Alex Mann moves to the open flanker position, while Alan Wainwright will start on the blindside. Olly Cracknell, Leicester player, joins the team at number eight, after making his debut as a substitute last weekend. Tandy has also made rotations in the props, with Nicky Smith and Archie Griffin coming in for Rhys Carre and Keiron Assiratti, who will be among the replacements. Hooker Dewi Lake takes over the captaincy in place of Morgan, who will miss the rest of the autumn schedule due to a dislocated shoulder.

I think we’ve definitely seen a lot of how we want to play against Argentina. There was a lot to be satisfied with, our attack was excellent and I saw a lot of physicality, but there’s a lot to improve.
Steve Tandy

The coach added: “So that’s what we’ve focused on. We’re looking to build on the first performance for this weekend.”Wales’ Lineup against Japan: