Wales’ final Nations Championship squad has given Steve Tandy a strong Cardiff spine before Saturday’s Fiji opener, with eight Cardiff Rugby players named in the 33-man group for the July window.
Cardiff Rugby confirmed that James Botham, Evan Lloyd, Alex Mann, Sam Wainwright, Teddy Williams, Josh Adams, Mason Grady and Ben Thomas have all made the cut. Wales start against Fiji at Cardiff City Stadium on 4 July before travelling to Argentina and South Africa.
Why the Cardiff block matters
The local core gives Tandy more than sentiment. Cardiff City Stadium is technically hosting a Fiji home fixture, but Wales will still walk into a familiar city, with Josh Adams’ 70 caps and Tomos Williams’ experience giving the backline a sharper platform.
Adams also brings British and Irish Lions pedigree to a group that needs calm decisions against Fiji’s transition speed.
The broader context is severe. World Rugby’s launch preview noted Fiji have scored from more than half of their line breaks since the start of 2025, while Wales have conceded the most line breaks per game among Nations Championship sides in the same period.
That makes the selection blend important. Tandy has already framed the summer around growth and consistency, while Leigh Halfpenny’s new kicking role adds another layer to Wales’ preparation after Read Rugby Union detailed his staff impact.
