The ecstasy and agony of Wales selection week

Rio Dyer (far left) and Josh Macleod (far right) missed out on Wales selection but Kane James and Harrison Keddie were called up by Steve Tandy [Huw Evans Picture Agency/Rex Features] There are always delighted and disappointed players when a Wales squad is named. This week has been no different after head coach Steve Tandy unveiled a 48-strong squad for four games this summer. Wales launch their campaign with a non-cap international against the Barbarians at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham on June 27, after which Tandy will reduce his squad for the Nations Championship games against Fiji, Argentina and South Africa.

The squad included six uncapped players and a returning British and Irish Lion in flanker Jac Morgan, while others have missed out. BBC Sport Wales has been gauging the reaction to the squad. Tandy waits on Wales captaincy decision James and Bradley among six uncapped Wales call-ups Reaction as Tandy names Wales squad for Nations Championship Exeter prepare for James Wales challenge Exeter back row Kane James is one of the new faces and probably the most exciting selection.

The 21-year-old was born and raised in Wales, but after moving to England aged 16 to continue his education, James played for England Under-20s in 2024, winning the age group's world championships that same year. He has opted for Wales, although James is currently part of Exeter's England qualified player (EQP) stocks that are required for each Prem club. That will change if he wins his first Wales cap and becomes ineligible for Steve Borthwick’s side.

James is one of 14 England-based players in Tandy‘s squad, with that set to rise next season when Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake join Gloucester and Aaron Wainwright links up with Leicester. Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter says there will be challenges for his club over James’ Wales call-up. "We view Kane as a frontline player this season, but at the same time, you also want a team with international players,” said Baxter.