Wales call up Cracknell after Faletau injury setback

Uncapped Leicester Tigers flanker Olly Cracknell has been called up to the Wales squad for the upcoming Autumn Nations Series after veteran Taulupe Faletau was released due to a knee injury sustained during Cardiff Rugby’s defeat to Edinburgh.

Wales head coach Steve Tandy described Faletau as a “world-class player” and expressed disappointment at the setback.

He added: “But Olly’s been playing really well for Leicester and we’re excited to add him to the squad.” Cracknell’s inclusion adds fresh depth to the back-row as Wales prepare for Tests against Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

While Faletau’s absence deprives Wales of experience and leadership, Cracknell’s performance at club level earned him this call-up and gives him his first chance at senior international level.

Wales squad:

Forwards: Keiron Assiratti, Adam Beard, Liam Belcher, Rhys Carre, Ben Carter, Brodie Coghlan, Christian Coleman, Rhys Davies, Olly Cracknell, James Fender, Archie Griffin, Dafydd Jenkins, Dewi Lake, Alex Mann, Jac Morgan, Morgan Morse, Taine Plumtree, Nicky Smith, Danny Southworth, Gareth Thomas, Freddie Thomas, Aaron Wainwright.

Backs: Josh Adams, Jacob Beetham, Rio Dyer, Dan Edwards, Jarrod Evans, Kieran Hardy, Joe Hawkins, Louie Hennessey, Max Llewellyn, Reuben Morgan-Williams, Blair Murray, Louis Rees-Zammit, Tom Rogers, Callum Sheedy, Ben Thomas, Nick Tompki, Tomos Williams.