“He’s definitely a player of interest”- Tandy reveals talks with Welsh-qualified star who was dealt a huge blow

Tuesday, 20 January 2026 at 18:00

byHarry Tovey

After being forced off the pitch after a matter of minutes during Exeter Chiefs’ bruising 31-0 victory over Cardiff Rugby, ‘outstanding’ Kane James suffered a cruel setback in the EPCR Challenge Cup meeting.

The back-rower, who was born in Haverfordwest, was tipped to be included in Steve Tandy’s Six Nations squad but limped off at Sandy Park in noticeable discomfort.

concluded Tandy.

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This setback for the 20-year-old could not have come at a worse time, as Tandy selected his squad on a rainy afternoon at the Vale Resort.

When asked about James’ potential of playing for Wales, Tandy added: “He is definitely a player of interest, as everyone is seeing on TV.

“He’s an outstanding talent, and he’s a great young man as well. Kane would have definitely been (talked about).”

James, who wore the eight jersey for Exeter last Sunday, is eligible for Wales, England, and New Zealand and has made appearances for Wales U18s. He was also a part of England U20s Six Nations and World Rugby U20 Championship double after switching nations.

“There are a lot of decisions for Kane to make as well, but whenever you are looking at any Welsh-qualified talent out there, we are always going to look at them, and we will always be interested,” continued Tandy.

“We can’t just focus on here (Wales), we got to branch out and how we look at things. Look at the special talents that we have had over the years.

“From my time in Scotland as well, you see, when you get a lot of those gems, it adds value; it adds from different environments, it creates a different stimulus as well.”

For James, it was announced on Tuesday morning, however, that he would be sidelined for the duration of the championships, after Exeter head coach revealed it looked likely to be a serious injury.

But when back fit, it feels like Tandy cannot afford to leave the England U20s player out of the squad. Long term, this move makes a great deal of sense. He’s been outstanding when selected for Exeter, has great potential beyond the 2027 Rugby World Cup, and is only 20 years old.

“I’ve spoken to Kane lots, like I’ve spoken to lots of people.

“Again, it’s more of a wider conversation. Look, he’s a talented player.

“You talk about being connected with players; we’re having conversations with lots of people, because you never know when that opportunity may arise,”