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How and why Wales are relying on scrum-half Williams
Wales are relying heavily on scrum-half Tomos Williams, who has started 12 of 13 Tests since Steve Tandy became head coach and played the full 80 minutes against Japan. Tandy says managing Williams’ workload while developing cover is a difficult balance, particularly with Wales preparing to face New Zealand.
Across Williams’ 12 starts, replacement scrum-halves have played only 48 minutes, averaging four minutes per match; in Wales’ past nine Tests in 2026, the bench cover has played a combined 30 minutes. Williams has averaged 74.3 minutes per Test and completed five matches, while deputy Kieran Hardy is out with a serious knee injury. Reuben Morgan-Williams and uncapped Che Hope are the other scrum-halves in the autumn squad.
In short
- Tomos Williams has started 12 of Wales’ 13 Tests under Steve Tandy.
- Replacement scrum-halves have played just 48 minutes across those 12 starts.
- Wales are considering how to give emerging cover more Test experience.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Starting Tomos Williams regularly can give Wales their best chance of controlling matches, especially against formidable opposition such as New Zealand. His experience and consistency may justify keeping him on the pitch, while limited chances for replacements could reflect close, high-stakes games rather than poor planning.
The case against
The workload raises a reasonable concern about fatigue and injury, particularly with Williams completing full matches and experienced deputy Kieran Hardy unavailable. Giving Reuben Morgan-Williams and Che Hope more minutes could build reliable cover and reduce Wales’ dependence on one player, even if that means accepting some short-term disruption.