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Rees-Zammit has to start as Wales go into a must-win clash against Japan

Western Mail

|

November 12, 2025

> After his cameo off the bench on Sunday, Louis Rees-Zammit has to start as Wales look for a crucial victory against Japan

- STEFFAN THOMAS

Rees-Zammit has to start as Wales go into a must-win clash against Japan

WALES' autumn campaign began with a disappointing 52-28 defeat against Argentina at the Principality Stadium.

There were positives to take out of the game but there is a mountain of improvement needed if Wales are to start competing with the top teams in world rugby once again.

With the Rugby World Cup draw set to be made next month it is imperative Wales come out on top against Japan on Saturday.

Tandy will need to consider making changes to the side to take on Japan or whether to just tinker around the edges.

These are key selection debates the Wales coaches will be having this week and who I would pick.

Rees-Zammit parachuted into a rejigged back-three

THE Bristol Bears flyer simply has to start against Japan.

Rees-Zammit made an impact upon entering the fray against Argentina with a couple of breaks on the outside before chipping ahead.

On one occasion if the ball had bounced a couple of inches lower he would have scored on his Wales comeback.

Rees-Zammit can give Wales a cutting edge out wide and is a deadly finisher who simply must start against Japan and New Zealand.

Wales lost the aerial battle against Argentina with fullback Blair Murray's short stature exposed.

Murray adds a huge amount to this side from an attacking perspective but there's an argument the Scarlets man would be better served out on the wing.

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