'We're 12th in the world for a reason'- Steve Tandy on Challenges as World Cup Draw Looms

If they fail to do so, Wales will have a nightmare of a group for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. The draw for which, takes place on December 3.

As much as Steve Tandy will be aiming to get up and running as Wales head coach recording a first win, the hopes of a successful World Cup campaign relies heavily on Saturday’s match against the Brave Blossoms at Principality Stadium.

There’s two bands (1-6 and 7-12) , and for Tandy and his side, they’ll be wanting to remain in these bands for a more favourable group.

If they drop down from their current position of 12th, then it could see Wales into the notorious group of death. The importance of recording a result for Wales on Saturday is huge.

This is due to them sitting 0.32 points ahead of Eddie Jones’ Japan side in the World Rankings. A loss and they’ll drop to 13th, a nightmare for Tandy’s new era as head coach.

Even a draw won’t be enough for Wales to remain in 12th, and if the Brave Blossoms do however lose they can still overtake Wales for the 12th spot.

Realistically, Wales will unlikely cause a huge upset against both New Zealand and South Africa later this month. But for Japan, if they record a victory against Georgia in Tbilisi next week they’ll rise up to 12th spot.

Sunday’s result against Argentina just shows the challenge ahead for Tandy and his back room team, but the 45-year-old is motivated and excited to turn around Welsh Rugby fortunes.

“I always knew it was going to be a challenge. We’re 12th in the world for a reason,” said Tandy.