Wales team vs Japan: record nine England-based starters named

Wales have picked a record nine England-based players in their starting XV for the Test against Japan in Cardiff on Saturday 7 November 2026.

"We can either complain about having 20 players playing overseas, or we can recognise the benefits," coach Steve Tandy said. Six of the eight forwards in the pack are among those nine.

Tandy has made seven changes from the side beaten 43-0 by South Africa in July. In midfield, Max Llewellyn starts at inside centre alongside Eddie James at 13. The two have not started a Test together. Tandy has dropped his policy of choosing a more recognised ball-player at 12, and he said of Llewellyn: "You can't overlook Max's form since returning."

Thomas is out with a calf injury, and Joe Hawkins was left out of the 23-strong squad for the autumn, according to BBC Sport.

Up front, Dafydd Jenkins returns from a knee injury to partner Ben Carter in the second row. BBC Sport reported that props Nicky Smith and Archie Griffin start alongside captain Dewi Lake. At fly-half, Sam Costelow is preferred to Dan Edwards, who is on the bench.

Where Wales stand

Wales began the Nations Championship in July by beating Fiji, then lost to Argentina and South Africa. They are fifth in the northern hemisphere standings, and the standings page tracks the table.

After Japan, Wales host New Zealand and Australia on successive Saturdays. Then comes the finals weekend at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.