Louis Rees-Zammit goes straight into the XV: Wales team to play Argentina

Monday, 03 November 2025 at 19:49

byHarry Tovey

Louis Rees-Zammit is set to return to the Wales starting XV as they begin their Quilter Nations Series campaign against Argentina Cardiff on Sunday, 9 November.

After naming a 39-man squad, much of Steve Tandy’s selection will focus on picking players based on form. However, as with any new head coach, we may see new partnerships forming — though, realistically, there will be no major shake-ups from the previous XV selected by Warren Gatland and Matt Sherratt.

Below, we take a punt on who will start in that game with Louis Rees-Zammity going straight into the starting XV

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Back Three

15. Blair Murray (Scarlets, 10 caps)
Murray has emerged as one of Wales’ standout performers in recent fixtures, providing a rare positive in what has been a difficult period for Welsh rugby.

The 24-year-old has been a constant threat in attack, demonstrating creativity and composure to glide past opposition defences.

14. Louis Rees-Zammit (Bristol Bears, 32 caps)
Despite training separately from the main squad during last week’s open session at Principality Stadium, Rees-Zammit remains optimistic about his return ahead of the clash with Argentina.

If declared fit, his inclusion is almost certain. His return would provide a huge boost for Tandy’s side this autumn. Now representing Bristol Bears in the Gallagher Premiership, the winger looks noticeably stronger after his NFL stint and will be eager to make an immediate impact.

11. Josh Adams (Cardiff Rugby, 63 caps)
Wales need experience this autumn, and Adams remains that safe pair of hands for Tandy.

Although the winger has struggled for form since touring with the British & Irish Lions in 2021, his inclusion brings reliability and class. A back three of Adams, Rees-Zammit, and Murray is a mouthwatering prospect.

Centres

13. Max Llewellyn (Gloucester Rugby, 8 caps)
After being left out of the Six Nations squad by Gatland, the 6ft 6in centre was quickly reinstated by interim boss Sherratt for the remainder of the championship.

Wales must be smart in how they utilise the powerful ball carrier — getting over the gain line will be vital against the Pumas. His handling ability also adds another dimension to the attack.

12. Ben Thomas (Cardiff Rugby, 14 caps)
Out of all the inside centre options, Cardiff Rugby’s Ben Thomas appears to be the frontrunner, though Saracens’ Nick Tompkins remains in contention.

Having been used out of position under Gatland, Thomas will hope Tandy allows him to make the 12 jersey his own. His creativity and game awareness could be crucial come Sunday.

Half-Backs

10. Callum Sheedy (Cardiff Rugby, 16 caps)
This could be Tandy’s toughest call. While Ioan Lloyd impressed during the summer tour, both Sheedy and Jarrod Evans are pushing hard for the starting fly-half role.

Sheedy has had a strong start to the URC season and looks full of confidence. It may come down to a coin toss between him and Evans for the No.10 shirt.

9. Tomos Williams (Gloucester Rugby, 64 caps)
One of the easiest selections for Tandy. Williams is undoubtedly among the first names on the team sheet.

Had it not been for injury in Perth, he may well have earned Lions honours in the summer. The Gloucester scrum-half will be key to setting the tempo if Wales are to double their winning streak on Sunday.

Back Row

8. Aaron Wainwright (Dragons RFC, 59 caps)
With Taulupe Faletau sidelined, this is a golden opportunity for Wainwright to cement his place as Wales’ first-choice No.8.

Outstanding for the Dragons, his footwork, power, and athleticism make him a standout performer. Expect him to be central to Wales’ go-forward ball.

7. Jac Morgan (Ospreys, 23 caps)
Wales’ standout player in recent years returns after touring with the Lions. His work rate, defensive tenacity, and leadership make him indispensable.

Morgan firing on all cylinders will be vital if Wales are to secure a positive result.

6. Taine Plumtree (Scarlets, 8 caps)
A dynamic ball carrier with impressive footwork and physicality, Plumtree excels in the unseen work around the breakdown.

With Faletau injured, he’s likely to slot in on the blindside, forming a powerful trio with Morgan and Wainwright. He’ll face a big challenge against Argentina’s Pablo Matera.

Second Row

5. Adam Beard (Montpellier, 58 caps)
Beard missed the summer tour and hasn’t trained recently with Wales, but his return from Montpellier comes at a perfect time.

His experience, size, and work rate will be essential against Argentina’s powerful pack. Expect him to start.

4. Dafydd Jenkins (Exeter Chiefs, 23 caps)
Jenkins also missed the summer tour due to injury but remains one of Wales’ premier locks.

Alongside Beard, this combination provides balance and physical presence — likely Tandy’s strongest second-row pairing.

Front Row

3. Archie Griffin (Bath Rugby, 8 caps)
Although not a regular starter for Bath, Griffin remains Wales’ best option at tighthead.

Strong around the park, his scrummaging will be tested against the Pumas’ formidable front row. A solid start is essential.

2. Dewi Lake (Ospreys, 22 caps)
Captain in the summer and a key figure in Tandy’s plans, Lake offers power, leadership, and improved accuracy at the lineout.

A destructive carrier with deft offloads, he’ll be central to Wales’ physical approach.

1. Nicky Smith (Leicester Tigers, 56 caps)
A close call at loosehead, but Smith edges it as Wales’ most dependable scrummager.

The 31-year-old has impressed for Leicester, and his set-piece strength could be a deciding factor in Sunday’s contest.