Wales are considering handing Taine Plumtree a first Test start in the second-row against Fiji on Saturday, with the squad light on locks following the injury to Dafydd Jenkins, described as the team's "lynchpin" by Matt Sherratt. Steve Tandy could decide to move the Scarlets back-row into the boiler room for the clash at Cardiff City Stadium.
The Test week has been rocked by a last-minute dispute over match fees, momentarily raising fears over Saturday's game. However, an agreement was eventually reached, allowing attention to turn back to the match against the Flying Fijians.
Plumtree's Versatility Tested
Plumtree, 26, has won 14 caps for Wales since arriving from Auckland ahead of the 2023 World Cup. While he is versatile, throwing him into the second-row would be a significant call. His last start in that position in senior rugby was for Wellington in the NPC in August 2022, with a handful of games for New Zealand U20s. Part of his appeal when signing for the Scarlets was his ability to play second-row, but he has been used exclusively as a blindside flanker or No. 8.
With Jenkins out after shoulder surgery, only three specialist second-rows remain in the squad: Ben Carter, Adam Beard, and Teddy Williams. Carter started in the Six Nations, while Beard joined camp late after Montpellier's Top 14 run. Williams played his first match since October against the Barbarians. Ryan Woodman remains in camp as cover.
Appeal Against Fiji
Plumtree's athleticism could be key against a Fijian side that will stretch Wales. On the bench, tighthead Ben Warren is in line for a Test debut after appearing in the uncapped match against the Barbarians. At full-back, Blair Murray started last week, but Louis Rees-Zammit, who missed Tuesday's session with a niggle, could switch back to the wing if fit.
