Wales Names Squad for Second Test Against Japan, Makes Four Changes

Wales have made four changes to their side for the second test against Japan, with Dan Edwards named at flyhalf and Aaron Wainwright starting at number eight. Archie Griffin takes over at tighthead prop from Keiron Assiratti, and Freddie Thomas comes in at lock to partner Teddy Williams. The team also includes Christian Coleman, Reuben Morgan-Williams, and Keelan Giles who could make their debuts off the bench.

KOBE, Japan, July 10, 2025 - Wales have made four changes to their starting lineup for the second test against Japan, aiming to end their record 18-game losing streak. The changes include Dan Edwards at flyhalf, Aaron Wainwright at number eight, Archie Griffin at tighthead prop, and Freddie Thomas at lock.

Dan Edwards, who has two caps, is named at flyhalf to win his third cap and make his first start for Wales, replacing Sam Costelow. Aaron Wainwright, an experienced player, starts at number eight, with Taulupe Faletau dropping out due to heat stress-related cramps. Archie Griffin takes over at tighthead prop from Keiron Assiratti, who has not been able to train as much as desired. Freddie Thomas replaces Ben Carter, who was ruled out due to concussion, to partner Teddy Williams in the second row.

The team also includes Christian Coleman, Reuben Morgan-Williams, and Keelan Giles, who could make their debuts off the bench. Wales coach Matt Sherratt stated that he wanted to freshen up the team, with Dan Edwards and Aaron Wainwright being key additions to the lineup.

The biggest challenge for Wales this week, according to Sherratt, is repeating their good performances and improving their lineout launch in the last 20 minutes. He also mentioned that they should be braver with the ball.

The starting lineup for Wales is: 15-Blair Murray, 14-Tom Rogers, 13-Johnny Williams, 12-Ben Thomas, 11-Josh Adams, 10-Dan Edwards, 9-Kieran Hardy, 8-Aaron Wainwright, 7-Josh Macleod, 6-Alex Mann, 5-Teddy Williams, 4-Freddie Thomas, 3-Archie Griffin, 2-Dewi Lake (captain), 1-Nicky Smith.

Replacements: 16-Liam Belcher, 17-Gareth Thomas, 18-Christian Coleman, 19-James Ratti, 20-Taine Plumtree, 21-Tommy Reffell, 22-Reuben Morgan-Williams, 23-Keelan Giles.

References:
[1] https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/others/rugbywales-make-four-changes-for-second-test-against-japan-101752123270791.html
[2] https://www.reuters.com/en/wales-make-four-changes-second-test-against-japan-2025-07-10/
[3] https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/articles/c9qxpydee4xo