Louis Rees-Zammit has been recalled to the Wales squad for the upcoming autumn Tests after a 21-month absence. The winger, who famously made the switch to American football in early 2024, is set to make his international comeback under the guidance of Wales’ new head coach, Steve Tandy. Rees-Zammit, 24, previously made 32 appearances for Wales, including playing in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. His decision to pursue a career in the NFL, however, saw him leave rugby for a brief spell. Despite the bold move, he did not feature in any competitive NFL games and returned to rugby in August 2025, joining English Premiership side Bristol.
Though Rees-Zammit is currently sidelined with a foot injury, it is not expected to keep him out of action for long. He could be in line for a return to the Wales squad for their opening autumn Test against Argentina on November 9. Tandy, who took over as head coach following his stint as Scotland’s defence coach, has named a 39-player squad for the autumn campaign, which will also see Wales face Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa.
The squad includes several new faces, with Saracens prop Rhys Carré also making the cut. Carré, who had previously been ineligible due to the Welsh Rugby Union’s eligibility rules, now requalifies after a change in the regulations. His 20 caps for Wales were deemed sufficient to regain selection, after he left Wales in 2024 to join Saracens.
Alongside Rees-Zammit, five uncapped players have earned a spot in the squad, including Dragons hooker Brodie Coghlan, Ospreys lock James Fender, Cardiff prop Danny Southworth, and Bath centre Louie Hennessey. These newcomers will be joined by experienced players such as flanker Jac Morgan, who will captain the team for the autumn Tests.
Despite the excitement surrounding the new call-ups, there will be notable absentees. Long-serving Racing 92 lock Will Rowlands, who has 41 caps for Wales, has announced his retirement from international rugby, while injuries have kept players such as Cameron Winnett and Keelan Giles out of contention for selection.
The autumn Tests will be a critical period for Wales as they look to build momentum under Tandy’s leadership, with a mix of youthful talent and experienced internationals coming together for the challenging fixtures ahead.
