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

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Louis Rees-Zammit returns to the Wales national team this autumn, marking his return to rugby after trying to succeed in the NFL. The talented player, who previously played as a winger, signed a contract with the NFL through the International Player Pathway (IPP) Program, which allowed him to be part of the training teams of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Jacksonville Jaguars. After 18 months in the NFL, Rees-Zammit decided to return to rugby in August, securing a one-season contract with the Bristol Bears.

His absence coincided with a losing streak for Wales, which stretched for 18 matches, from the 2023 Rugby World Cup to a test match in Japan in July. During this period, Warren Gatland left his position as head coach, being replaced by Steve Tandy.

Rees-Zammit Returns to Wales: Called Up for Rugby Tests After NFL
Louis Rees-Zammit pasó 18 meses en la NFL antes de volver al rugby en agosto.
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 noteworthy is the presence of Rhys Carre, the Saracens prop. Although Carre has 20 international matches, below the 25-match limit to play outside of Wales, the Welsh Professional Rugby Board granted an exception to Tandy to select him.

It has been very exciting to go through the whole process and realize how many good players we have. We have reached the selection decision, with which we are very happy. There is a very good mix of young players coming in, mixed with some experience as well. But the overall feeling is really exciting and I can’t wait to have the guys in camp on Monday.

Steve Tandy
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A significant loss is that of second row Will Rowlands, who announced his retirement from international rugby on Tuesday, after a career with Wales in which he accumulated 41 matches.

Will has been an incredible servant to the game in Welsh rugby. He has been an exceptional player and a great human being in the environment. Anyone who has spoken about Will has said that he added a lot of value to the national game, both on and off the field. Obviously, it’s disappointing for us to lose a player of that quality, but we fully understand his circumstances and wish him the best for his future.

Steve Tandy
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