Matt Sherratt resumes as Wales interim head coach for Japan tour

In a strategic move to stabilize Welsh rugby, Matt Sherratt will resume his role as interim head coach for the national team’s upcoming summer tour of Japan.

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) confirmed the appointment ahead of the two-Test series scheduled for July, as Wales grapples with a 17-match losing streak—the worst in their history.

Sherratt previously stepped into the role during the final phase of the 2025 Six Nations after Warren Gatland’s departure.

He will now oversee a refreshed coaching lineup featuring Gethin Jenkins (defence), Danny Wilson (forwards), Adam Jones (scrum), and Rhys Thomas. Former Wales fullback Leigh Halfpenny will make his coaching debut as the team’s new kicking coach.

A 33-man squad has been selected for the tour, with a strong emphasis on regeneration and long-term planning.

Six uncapped players, including Liam Belcher, Chris Francis, and Macs Page, have been called up, injecting fresh blood into the team. Fly-half Sam Costelow and fullback Cai Evans make their returns after recovering from injuries.

Dewi Lake has been named captain, stepping in for Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams, both of whom are part of the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia.

The squad notably excludes senior names such as James Botham, Gareth Anscombe, Nick Tompkins, and Ellis Jenkins—highlighting a shift towards building for the future.

While the WRU continues its search for a permanent head coach under new Director of Rugby Dave Reddin, Sherratt has made it clear he is not seeking the role full-time. His focus remains on guiding the team through this transitional phase with stability and purpose.

WRU Chief Executive Abi Tierney praised Sherratt’s previous impact, stating that his influence helped restore a sense of belief and energy in a squad that had been struggling for cohesion and form. The Japan tour will serve as a litmus test for both the interim leadership and the new squad members.

The series against Japan, scheduled in Kitakyushu and Tokyo, presents a crucial opportunity for Wales to break their losing streak and improve their World Rugby ranking, where they currently sit 12th—just one spot ahead of Japan.