Rees-Zammit Returns to Wales: Called Up for Autumn Tests After NFL

Louis Rees-Zammit returns to the Wales national team this autumn, marking his return to rugby after trying to succeed in the NFL. The fast 24-year-old player, who had signed with the Kansas City Chiefs and the Jacksonville Jaguars through the NFL’s International Player Pathway (IPP) program, returns to rugby after signing a contract with the Bristol Bears. His two-year absence coincided with a negative streak for Wales, which included 18 consecutive losses from the 2023 Rugby World Cup to a match in Japan in July. During this period, Warren Gatland left the coaching position, being replaced by Steve Tandy.

Rees-Zammit is part of a 39-player squad that includes five debutants: Danny Southworth, Brodie Coghlan, James Fender, Morgan Morse, and Louis Hennessey. Also included is Rhys Carre, the Saracens prop. Although Carre has 20 international matches, below the 25-cap limit for players playing outside of Wales, the Welsh Professional Rugby Board granted an exception to Tandy to select him.

It’s been very exciting to go through the whole process and realize how many good players we have. We are very happy with the selection. There is a good mix of young and experienced players. The overall feeling is very exciting and I’m looking forward to the boys training on Monday.

Steve Tandy

• Red Roses legend Emily Scarratt to retire.

A notable absence is Will Rowlands, who announced his retirement from international rugby on Tuesday, after a 41-match career with Wales.

Will has been a great servant to Welsh rugby. He has been an exceptional player and a great human being in the environment. It’s disappointing for us to lose a player of his quality, but we understand his circumstances and wish him the best for the future.

Steve Tandy