Wales head coach Steve Tandy has significant decisions to make ahead of next Saturday's Nations Championship clash with Argentina in San Juan, following the team's 39-24 victory over Fiji. While the win has strengthened claims for continuity, the grueling 17-hour travel from Oceania to South America may prompt tactical rotations.
Back-Three Adjustments Possible
Louis Rees-Zammit, shifted back to the wing after five Six Nations starts at full-back, had a quiet outing against Fiji. Despite his desire to end a try drought, Tandy may consider starting Ellis Mee, especially given Scotland's success in exploiting Argentina's aerial vulnerabilities during their win over Los Pumas.
Fly-Half Conundrum
Dan Edwards endured a physically punishing afternoon, with Fiji's midfield consistently targeting him. The 23-year-old Osprey missed several kicks at goal, likely due to the physical toll. Sam Costelow, who sparked Wales' fast start against Scotland in the Six Nations, could be preferred to inject early tempo against Argentina's defense.
Forward Pack Stability
The front-row of Rhys Carre, Dewi Lake, and Dillon Lewis is expected to remain unchanged after dominating Fiji's scrum. Carre scored a trademark try early in the second half, while debutant prop Ben Warren impressed off the bench. The second-row pairing of Ben Carter and Adam Beard also delivered a solid set-piece performance.
Back-Row and Bench Options
James Botham could replace Alex Mann in the starting back-row after impactful bench displays. A 6-2 split on the replacements bench might allow inclusion of Taine Plumtree or Tommy Reffell, while Teddy Williams provides second-row cover. Kane James, an Exeter back-rower, is in contention for a debut off the bench.
Midfield Continuity
The centre partnership of Joe Hawkins and Eddie James, starting their fifth consecutive Test, is building cohesion and is likely to remain intact despite competition from Ben Thomas, Max Llewellyn, and Mason Grady.
Possible Starting XV
Blair Murray; Ellis Mee, Eddie James, Joe Hawkins, Josh Adams; Sam Costelow, Tomos Williams; Rhys Carre, Dewi Lake, Dillon Lewis, Ben Carter, Adam Beard, James Botham, Jac Morgan, Aaron Wainwright.
Replacements: Ryan Elias, Nicky Smith, Ben Warren, Teddy Williams, Kane James, Kieran Hardy, Dan Edwards, Louis Rees-Zammit.
