Wales make five changes for South Africa Test
Warren Gatland has made five changes to the Wales side
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Wales head coach Warren Gatland has made five changes to his starting lineup for Saturday’s clash against South Africa at the Principality Stadium.
The adjustments come as Wales seek to end a record-breaking 11-match losing streak, the longest in their 143-year history.
Flyhalf Gareth Anscombe has been replaced by Sam Costelow, while Rio Dyer returns to the wing for the first time since the tour of Australia in July. Blair Murray moves from the wing to fullback in only his third start for Wales, with Cameron Winnett dropping out.
In the forwards, Christ Tshiunza steps into the second row, replacing the injured Adam Beard. Taine Plumtree takes the No. 8 jersey, with Aaron Wainwright making way. Gloucester lock Freddie Thomas has been named among the replacements and is in line to earn his first cap.
The changes come after a 52-20 loss to Australia last weekend, a result that intensified scrutiny on Gatland’s tenure. The defeat marked Wales’ longest losing streak and their worst in over a century of international rugby.
“Last week’s result hurts, and we are just as disappointed by it as the fans,” Gatland said. “There were good elements that we can build on going into Saturday, but we have to improve our accuracy.”
Saturday’s test against the reigning world champions poses a significant challenge. Wales have not won a Test since the 2023 Rugby World Cup, and their losing streak includes a 41-13 defeat to South Africa at Twickenham in June.
“We know what a quality side South Africa are and the physicality they bring,” Gatland added. “This week, we need to show real courage and front up against the world champions.”
Wales: 15 Blair Murray, 14 Tom Rogers, 13 Max Llewellyn, 12 Ben Thomas, 11 Rio Dyer, 10 Sam Costelow, 9 Ellis Bevan, 8 Taine Plumtree, 7 Jac Morgan, 6 James Botham, 5 Christ Tshiunza, 4 Will Rowlands, 3 Archie Griffin, 2 Dewi Lake, 1 Gareth Thomas
Reserves: 16 Ryan Elias, 17 Nicky Smith, 18 Keiron Assiratti, 19 Freddie Thomas, 20 Tommy Reffell, 21 Rhodri Williams, 22 Eddie James, 23 Josh Hathaway
