Wales' summer plans have just taken a major hit – literally. Exeter Chiefs lock Dafydd Jenkins has been ruled out of the Nations Championship campaign after succumbing to a shoulder injury sustained during their Premiership final defeat to Northampton. The 23-year-old, who's clocked up an impressive 31 caps for Wales, will now undergo surgery, leaving Steve Tandy's squad minus one of its most influential figures.
Jenkins' absence is a hammer blow to Welsh fans and the team alike – he'd started every single one of Wales' Six Nations fixtures, and his consistency in the pack was a key factor in their success. Assistant coach Matt Sherratt summed it up: "We're gutted to lose Dafydd as a player and a person – he's the complete package for this squad." The 31-cap veteran's loss will undoubtedly be felt, but Exeter Chiefs are optimistic that surgery will get him back on track in time for next season.
Head coach Steve Tandy's 33-strong squad is now set to take on Fiji at Cardiff City Stadium on July 4th, and they'll be hoping the team can gel quickly. The initial 48-man provisional squad has been whittled down, with two uncapped players – Ospreys prop Ben Warren and Exeter back-row forward Kane James – making the cut. Other notable exclusions include Rhys Barratt, Harri Keddie, and Ryan Woodman.
Tandy's selection approach was to mirror what they'll face at the 2027 World Cup, building competition among their players and taking some tough calls along the way. The final squad boasts a trio of specialist locks: Ben Carter, Teddy Williams, and Adam Beard – who returns after a stint in Montpellier.
Wales' Nations Championship campaign kicks off with a bang on July 4th at Cardiff City Stadium (14:10 BST) against Fiji, followed by away Tests against Argentina and South Africa. But for now, fans will be crossing their fingers that Jenkins can make it back to full fitness before the new season.