Snubbed Wales players and new young faces now close to summer call-ups amid concerns

Steve Tandy and his coaches will be very busy over the next few weeks

As the domestic season edges towards its conclusion, Wales head coach Steve Tandy is already shifting his focus to a pivotal summer, with the upcoming Nations Cup firmly in his sights.

Wales begin their summer campaign with a clash against the Barbarians at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on June 27, before heading into the inaugural Nations Cup, where they will face Fiji, Argentina and South Africa. The closing rounds of the United Rugby Championship offer a final opportunity for players to stake their claim, while Tandy will also be monitoring performances in the Gallagher Premiership.

In reality, much of the squad appears settled following a noticeable upturn in form towards the back end of the Six Nations. However, Tandy may look to the summer as a chance to strengthen depth and assess players on the fringes of selection.

One player pressing a strong case for inclusion is Cardiff outside-half Callum Sheedy, who was notably absent from the Six Nations squad. Injuries have left Wales short of options at fly-half, with Sam Costelow in a race to prove his fitness and Jarrod Evans sidelined by a shoulder injury sustained while playing for Harlequins.

Dan Edwards is expected to hold the No.10 shirt, but beyond him the options are limited, potentially opening the door for Sheedy’s return.

The 30-year-old has been in impressive form for Cardiff in recent weeks, showcasing a sharp attacking kicking game, strong distribution and a willingness to take the ball to the line. His improved goal-kicking has also played a key role in Cardiff’s push towards the play-offs.

Concerns also extend to the back three, where injuries to Ellis Mee, Mason Grady and Keelan Giles have left Tandy short-handed. That could pave the way for Rio Dyer to force his way back into contention after missing out on Six Nations selection.

Another player to have caught the eye is Cardiff’s Jacob Beetham, who has found form in the latter stages of the season. His versatility and current performances make him a strong candidate to feature, particularly given the injury situation.

Elsewhere, Tandy may consider casting the net wider. Bristol Bears playmaker James Williams and Harlequins centre Bryn Bradley are both potential options, with Bradley’s dual qualification making him an intriguing prospect for the future. Even a role against the Barbarians and inclusion in the wider squad could prove valuable.

It also appears increasingly likely that Exeter Chiefs back-rower Kane James will be involved, having opted to represent Wales if selected this summer; a development that will be welcomed given recent losses of dual-qualified talent such as Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Kepu Tuipulotu.

Finally, Elliot Dee could return to the fold after impressing for the Dragons since his comeback from injury. With Dewi Lake battling to regain fitness following a shoulder problem, Dee’s experience may prove crucial over the coming weeks.

Tandy may also opt to name an extended squad, allowing him to take a closer look at emerging talent. Cardiff loosehead Rhys Barratt, Dragons back-rower Ryan Woodman and Gloucester’s Wales U20s captain Deian Gwynne are all understood to be on the radar as Tandy weighs up his options.

All told, this summer represents more than just a fresh set of fixtures for Wales. It is a valuable opportunity for Tandy to refine his squad, address key areas of concern and build meaningful depth ahead of a demanding international calendar.

With injuries forcing his hand in certain positions and a number of players hitting form at just the right time, the Nations Cup could prove a defining period in shaping both the immediate future and longer-term direction of the Welsh side.