Wales is gearing up for a crucial Six Nations clash against Ireland in 2026, and the big news is the potential return of Ellis Mee to the starting lineup. But here's where it gets intriguing: Will this bold move be enough to end their losing streak?
Coach Tandy is expected to announce his team on Wednesday, aiming to build on the team's promising display against Scotland. Wales is desperate to break their 14-game losing streak in the Six Nations, and Tandy's selection will be pivotal.
Mee, the Leicester wing, made his presence felt in the opening rounds against England and France but was benched for the Scotland game, making way for Hamer-Webb's debut. While Mee showed potential, he was also involved in a memorable try by Darcy Graham, set up by Finn Russell's quick thinking. Russell exploited the gap left by Hamer-Webb, who had pursued Jarrod Evans' successful penalty kick.
Blair Murray replaced the injured Hamer-Webb, but it's Mee's aerial prowess that could see him reclaim his spot for the Dublin encounter. Botham, who impressed against Scotland, also fell victim to Russell's restart strategy.
The dynamic flanker Botham will partner with Cardiff's Alex Mann, while Wainwright's injury status raises concerns at number eight.
Edwards, previously a regular starter, will take the reins after Costelow's promising performance was cut short by an ankle injury. Harlequins' Evans, a frequent substitute under Tandy, hasn't started a Test since 2021.
Wales faces a challenging task, having not won away against Ireland in the Six Nations since 2012 and not tasted victory in Dublin since 2015. Meanwhile, Ireland, despite an initial loss to France, has kept their title dreams alive with wins over Italy and England, and they remain in the hunt for the Triple Crown.
Can Wales pull off the upset and break their losing streak, or will Ireland's home advantage prove too strong? The rugby world eagerly awaits the outcome of this pivotal Six Nations encounter.
