Wales vs Ireland Six Nations Match Preview: Sherratt Rings the Changes
Image credits: Photograph: Dan Istitene/Getty Images
The Wales team to face Ireland in the third round of the 2025 Guinness Six Nations has been named, with interim head coach Matt Sherratt making eight changes to the starting lineup. Gareth Anscombe and Max Llewellyn, who were called up to the squad this week, make their first appearances of the championship at fly-half and centre respectively. Ben Thomas partners Llewellyn in the midfield, while Tomos Williams is named scrum-half. The front row sees Nicky Smith selected at loosehead prop, Elliot Dee at hooker, and WillGriff John making his Six Nations debut at tighthead prop.
Ellis Mee is named on the wing for his first cap, becoming the 1,211th men’s international to represent Wales. Captain Jac Morgan starts at blindside flanker, Tommy Reffell is at openside flanker, and Taulupe Faletau completes the back row at No. 8. Will Rowlands and Dafydd Jenkins pair up in the second row. Tom Rogers joins debutant Mee on the wing, while Blair Murray completes the starting XV at fullback. The replacements include Jarrod Evans, who could make his first appearance for Wales since summer 2021, and Evan Lloyd, Gareth Thomas, Henry Thomas, Teddy Williams, and Aaron Wainwright providing forward cover.
Sherratt said: “We’re looking forward to the challenge of facing Ireland. We have spoken this week about being brave, but not reckless and making sure everyone knows their roles. We also know that keeping our discipline will be huge.” The match will be played at a sold-out Principality Stadium, with the atmosphere expected to be electric. Wales are looking to end their 14-match losing streak, while Ireland are bidding to create history by winning a third consecutive Six Nations title. The Irish team has been in fine form, with a number of key players returning from injury. The Wales team, on the other hand, has been struggling with consistency, but the return of Anscombe and Llewellyn will provide a much-needed boost.
The team lineups are as follows:
- Wales: Blair Murray, Tom Rogers, Max Llewellyn, Ben Thomas, Ellis Mee, Gareth Anscombe, Tomos Williams, Nicky Smith, Elliot Dee, WillGriff John, Will Rowlands, Dafydd Jenkins, Jac Morgan, Tommy Reffell, Taulupe Faletau
- Replacements: Evan Lloyd, Gareth Thomas, Henry Thomas, Teddy Williams, Aaron Wainwright, Rhodri Williams, Jarrod Evans, Joe Roberts
The Six Nations championship is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the rugby world, with six teams competing for the top prize. The tournament is known for its intense rivalries and competitive matches, and this year's championship is expected to be no exception. With the return of key players and the introduction of new talent, the Wales vs Ireland match is expected to be one of the highlights of the tournament.
wal sherratt rugby ireland gareth anscombe llewellyn nation six matt
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