It's a crushing blow just hours before kick-off – Wales' Josh Adams, one of their star wingers, has been forced out of the Nations Championship clash against South Africa in Durban with a calf injury. The 31-year-old Cardiff favourite had been selected by head coach Steve Tandy to be part of his attacking armoury, but that plan lies in tatters now. Adams was withdrawn from the squad before the team's warm-up on Friday, and it's a bitter pill for Wales to swallow just as they face their toughest test against the reigning world champions at Hollywoodbets Kings Park.
Adams has been on fire this year, starting every game in 2026 and crossing the try line with aplomb, including that crucial score against Fiji in the Nations Championship opener. His absence will be keenly felt, particularly given his heroics against the Springboks – who can forget that unforgettable try which secured Wales' historic first-ever win on South African soil back in 2022? That moment remains etched in Welsh rugby history as one of their finest moments.
Now, with Adams ruled out, Ellis Mee steps up to fill his boots in the starting XV. Mee had been set to miss out initially following Louis Rees-Zammit's recall, but now gets his chance against one of rugby's toughest teams. The Welsh side will be pinning their hopes on Mee adapting quickly to the pressure of a starting role.
The match at Hollywoodbets Kings Park kicks off at 16:40 BST today, with Wales facing a Springboks team that includes familiar names like Cheslin Kolbe and Lukhanyo Am. The Welsh side will be looking to captain Dewi Lake and experienced players Tomos Williams and Jac Morgan to lead the charge against their formidable opponents, under the watchful eye of referee Andrew Brace from the IRFU.