Wales’ men’s rugby team will step out onto the field at Mikuni World Stadium in Fukuoka this morning, with their summer Test series against Japan set to get underway at 6:00am BST (Saturday). Interim head coach Matt Sherratt, alongside forwards coach Jonathan Thomas, has named a squad that combines seasoned internationals with exciting new talent for this crucial opening clash.
Sherratt, stepping back into the interim head coach role following Warren Gatland’s departure post-Six Nations, has made 16 changes to the squad, prioritising experience to arrest Wales’ unprecedented 17-match losing streak. Among those called up are stalwarts such as Josh Adams, Taulupe Faletau and Aaron Wainwright, alongside six uncapped players – including Dragons tight-head Chris Coleman and wing Keelan Giles
The Test marks a historic rematch. Japan famously secured a shock win over Wales in Tokyo in 2013—one that still resonates years on—even though Wales claimed victory in their most recent meeting in 2016 .
Key names to watch:
- Captain Dewi Lake will lead from hooker, supported by props Nicky Smith and Keiron Assiratti
- Josh Macleod returns to the pack after nearly three years, joining Alex Mann and veteran Taulupe Faletau in the back row
- Sam Costelow slots in at fly‑half following his Six Nations recovery
Interim head coach Sherratt emphasised the squad’s readiness: “We had a very good build‑up. We tried to give everyone a fair chance of selection,” he explained, also highlighting the critical need for intensity: “An 80‑minute performance … transfer training into the game is going to be the biggest thing for us … It’s going to be humid … Japan traditionally play quite a fast brand of rugby”
Set in the sweltering humidity of Kitakyushu, the fixture is more than just a game—it’s a statement of intent. With Japan ranked just below Wales in the world standings, a victory would not only halt the losing streak but also secure valuable World Cup seeding positions
Hooker and captain Lake echoed the sentiment: “We owe our fans something to believe in. This tour is the start of a new chapter.”
How to watch: The game will be broadcast live on BBC One Wales, BBC iPlayer, and S4C.
