"I much prefer it"- New threat emerges with Louis Rees-Zammit at 15 for Wales

Wednesday, 04 February 2026 at 13:28

byHarry Tovey

In Wales’ last meeting with England in the Six Nations, Louis Rees-Zammit watched on as Wales fell to yet another brutal defeat at the Principality Stadium.

He was still chasing an NFL dream at the time, but the electric, game-changing, now fullback, made his long-awaited return to rugby in the summer, joining Bristol Bears.

And with that, he will take to the field at Allianz Stadium on Saturday as Wales aim for their first Six Nations win in south-west London since 2012.

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Speaking on Sarra Elgan’s Six Nations preview, the 25-year-old said: “It wasn’t a great watch, especially against England and losing in that manner.”

Twickenham has not been the happiest of stomping grounds for Welsh rugby as of late, but with the 2027 Rugby World Cup fast approaching and an almost clean slate, Rees-Zammit highlighted the importance of fast-tracking development.

“We’ve got to continue to work hard and try and accelerate this process as quick as possible.

“We’ve got some real quality in our team, you’ve just got to bring the best out of each and every player.”

On the fresh start, with Steve Tandy taking charge of his first Six Nations as head coach, he added: “It’s like a new team coming together.

“When you get new coaching staff and different ideas, it feels like everyone freshens up and starts from scratch.

“In parts, we put in some good performances in the autumn, it’s just about doing it consistently for a full 80 minutes.”

There’s been a lot of discussion around where Rees-Zammit is best suited in Tandy’s side, and it is more than likely that he will be employed at fullback.

He’s been wearing the 15 jersey on a consistent basis for Bristol Bears in the Gallagher Prem of late, and will likely position himself there for the first time in the international arena since playing France in 2023.

“I love it,” said Rees-Zammit.

“It allows me to get more touches on the ball in open field, it suits my game. I much prefer it.

“I’ve played 15 in the past for Wales, but I think now I’m kind of seen as a 15 that can play on the wing.

“It just brings something different, and the way Bristol play is absolutely perfect for me.

“I’ve got the licence to not do what I want, but when I’ve got the ball back there, I have to make a decision and back myself.”