Six Nations Opener: Rees-Zammit Starts as Wales Full-Back Against England

Wales is preparing to kick off the Six Nations 2026 with high expectations. This season, the squad features a number of changes, including the notable addition of Louis Rees-Zammit, who will start as the full-back against England.

Wales Squad Overview

Head coach Steve Tandy recently expanded the team roster. Following the inclusion of Ospreys lock Rhys Davies, the squad now boasts a total of 39 players. Cardiff prop Sam Wainwright has stepped in for the injured Keiron Assiratti.

Uncapped Players

This year’s lineup includes two uncapped players: centre Louie Hennessey and wing Gabriel Hamer-Webb. Their inclusion indicates Tandy’s focus on injecting fresh talent into the team.

Forwards and Backs

• Forwards (21):
  • Adam Beard (Montpellier)
  • Liam Belcher (Cardiff)
  • James Botham (Cardiff)
  • Rhys Carre (Saracens)
  • Ben Carter (Dragons)
  • Olly Cracknell (Leicester)
  • Rhys Davies (Ospreys)
  • Harri Deaves (Ospreys)
  • Ryan Elias (Scarlets)
  • Tomas Francis (Provence)
  • Archie Griffin (Bath)
  • Dafydd Jenkins (Exeter)
  • Dewi Lake (Ospreys, capt)
  • Alex Mann (Cardiff)
  • Josh Macleod (Scarlets)
  • Taine Plumtree (Scarlets)
  • Nicky Smith (Leicester)
  • Gareth Thomas (Ospreys)
  • Freddie Thomas (Gloucester)
  • Aaron Wainwright (Dragons)
  • Sam Wainwright (Cardiff)
• Backs (18):
  • Josh Adams (Cardiff)
  • Sam Costelow (Scarlets)
  • Dan Edwards (Ospreys)
  • Jarrod Evans (Harlequins)
  • Mason Grady (Cardiff)
  • Kieran Hardy (Ospreys)
  • Gabriel Hamer-Webb (Leicester)
  • Joe Hawkins (Scarlets)
  • Louie Hennessey (Bath)
  • Eddie James (Scarlets)
  • Ellis Mee (Scarlets)
  • Reuben Morgan-Williams (Ospreys)
  • Blair Murray (Scarlets)
  • Louis Rees-Zammit (Bristol Bears)
  • Tom Rogers (Scarlets)
  • Ben Thomas (Cardiff)
  • Owen Watkin (Ospreys)
  • Tomos Williams (Gloucester)

As the tournament approaches, the selection reflects Tandy’s strategy to blend experienced players with new talent. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how Rees-Zammit performs in his pivotal role as full-back against a formidable England side.