Key Highlights
- Taupele Faletau is released from the autumn internationals due to a knee injury.
- Olly Cracknell of Leicester Tigers has been called up to replace Faletau in the Wales squad.
- Cracknell, 31, last represented Wales at under-20s and was previously called up to the senior squad without playing.
- The move is seen as a blow for new coach Steve Tandy of Leicester Tigers.
New Wales Squad for Autumn Internationals
Wales rugby has made several significant changes in their squad composition ahead of the autumn internationals. Most notably, Taulupe Faletau, a veteran player, is out of this year’s autumn series due to an injury suffered during Cardiff’s match against Edinburgh on Saturday night. The injury marks a setback for Faletau, who was expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming fixtures.
Replacing Faletau is Olly Cracknell, a 31-year-old back rower from Leicester Tigers.
This call-up represents an exciting opportunity for Cracknell, as he previously represented Wales at the under-20s level and was called up to the senior squad in 2017 without making his debut. His connection to Wales runs deeper through family ties; he qualified through his Welsh grandfather who hailed from Llanelli.
Cracknell’s selection is a significant move for Steve Tandy, the new head coach of Leicester Tigers and former Ospreys coach. Tandy expressed his disappointment at losing Faletau due to injury but remains optimistic about Cracknell’s potential impact on the team. “It’s obviously hugely disappointing to lose Toby to injury as he’s a world-class player,” said Tandy. “But Olly’s been playing really well for Leicester and we’re excited to add him to the squad.” Tandy noted that Cracknell has impressed in recent seasons with his physical presence and strong performances in the English Premiership.
Back Row Selection Debate
The release of Faletau opens up new debates within the Wales back row. Aaron Wainwright, a star from the Dragons team, is favored to wear the number eight jersey against Argentina in the first autumn fixture on November 9. However, Wainwright could also be considered for a position at six.
Other options for back rows include Taine Plumtree, Cracknell, Alex Mann, Morgan Morse, and Freddie Thomas.
The decision-making process will hinge on both immediate game needs and long-term development plans. While Cracknell’s recent form and experience make him a strong candidate, the team must also consider his familiarity with the senior squad environment and potential impact in high-stakes matches.
Autumn Internationals Squad
The full autumn internationals squad for Wales is as follows:
- Forwards: Keiron Assiratti, Adam Beard, Liam Belcher, Rhys Carre, Ben Carter, Brodie Coghlan*, Christian Coleman, Olly Cracknell*, Rhys Davies, James Fender*, Archie Griffin, Dafydd Jenkins, Dewi Lake, Alex Mann, Jac Morgan (c), 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, Callum Sheedy, Kieran Hardy, Joe Hawkins, Louie Hennessey*, Max Llewellyn, Reuben Morgan-Williams, Blair Murray, Louis Rees-Zammit, Tom Rogers, Ben Thomas, Nick Tompkins, Tomos Williams.
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