Wales have added versatile forward Freddie Thomas and hooker Elliot Dee to their squad for the Nations Championship match against South Africa in Durban on Saturday, July 18, 2026. This move comes as the team closely monitors the fitness of captain Dewi Lake, who sustained a groin injury during Wales' 35-21 loss to Argentina in San Juan on Saturday, July 12, 2026.

Lake limped out of the Argentina match but participated in light training on Tuesday, July 14. Forwards coach Danny Wilson told reporters in Durban, "That's ruled him more in than out at the moment. But we've got to see how the next 24 hours go, how he recovers from the light training session today and how he pulls up."

Thomas, who can play either as a lock or in the back row, and Dee are scheduled to arrive in South Africa on Tuesday, July 15. Loose-forward Taine Plumtree, who can also cover lock, is carrying a knock and is doubtful for the weekend's fixture.

Head coach Steve Tandy is expected to announce the team lineup to face the world champion Springboks on Thursday morning, July 16.

Sources