"Huge Boost"- Wales International Returns Days Before Wales Six Nations Squad Announcement

Friday, 16 January 2026 at 14:14

byHarry Tovey

Scarlets travel to cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens to conclude their European Champions Cup pool campaign on Sunday afternoon, as outside-half Sam Costelow makes his return from an ankle injury.

It’s a timely return as Wales head coach Steve Tandy will select his Six Nations squad next Tuesday ahead of the trip to Twickenham to face England at the beginning of next month.

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The Parc y Scarlets side is currently winless in Europe, but still has an opportunity to reach knockout rugby or play for a spot in the Challenge Cup.

This, however, lies on Friday night's meeting between Section Paloise (Pau) and Vodacom Bulls at the Stade du Hameau.

Interim Director of Rugby Nigel Davies said: “Mindset and belief is a big thing for us. Northampton are a fantastic team and will be hot favourites, and understandably so.

“I’m excited by the group. We have got some tremendous coaches and players and have a great opportunity to go up against one of the best teams in Europe and show what we’re about.”

Northampton Saints enter the contest off the back of a humbling 50-28 defeat by Bordeaux-Begles, which was only their second loss of the campaign.

“Not many people give us much of a chance, and understandably,” continued Davies.

“They’re a fantastic team, and at this moment in time, we’ve not been on the right end of results.

“They are the hot favourites, and we have to make sure we are in the right place to perform.”

Scarlets team to face Northampton Saints on Sunday, January 18

15. Jac Davies

14. Ellis Mee

13. Eddie James

12. Joe Hawkins

11. Blair Murray

10. Sam Costelow

9. Archie Hughes