Steve Tandy faces backlash over Wales squad selections for Nations Championship
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 21, 2026, 5:29 AM
Last updated Oct 21, 2026
Wales head coach Steve Tandy has announced a 39-man squad for next month's Nations Championship, facing criticism for his selections. The squad includes uncapped players Aneurin Owen, Che Hope, and Rhys Barratt, while notable omissions include Taulupe Faletau, Elliot Dee, and Bryn Bradley. Tandy, who has now named four squads since becoming coach, has acknowledged the tough nature of these decisions and the mixed reactions they generate. He is preparing for the World Cup in Australia less than a year away, aiming to assess player performances and build his core team ahead of the tournament.
- •Tandy announced 39-man squad for the Nations Championship on October 20.
- •Includes uncapped players Aneurin Owen, Che Hope, and Rhys Barratt.
- •Criticism arises for omitting veterans like Taulupe Faletau and Elliot Dee.
- •Tandy has named four squads since taking over as head coach in summer 2025.
- •Wales has 12 to 13 games before their World Cup campaign starts.
- 5:29 AMYahoo Sports — Tandy on copping flak and his tough Wales calls
- 5:29 AMBBC Sport — Tandy on copping flak and his tough Wales calls
"Wales boss Steve Tandy on making tough Nations Championship selection calls as he counts down to the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
"Wales boss Steve Tandy on making tough Nations Championship selection calls as he counts down to the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsOct 21, 2026, 5:29 AMTandy on copping flak and his tough Wales calls
Wales boss Steve Tandy on making tough Nations Championship selection calls as he counts down to the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
- BBC SportOct 21, 2026, 5:29 AMTandy on copping flak and his tough Wales calls
Wales boss Steve Tandy on making tough Nations Championship selection calls as he counts down to the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
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