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Aaron Wainwright has emerged as a major fitness doubt for Wales ahead of their upcoming Nations Championship fixture against New Zealand in Cardiff. The 29-year-old forward sustained a leg injury and has been spotted wearing a protective boot, missing training on Tuesday.
Selection Dilemma and Squad Options
Head coach Steve Tandy is scheduled to announce his matchday team on Thursday, and losing the former Dragons player would deal a significant setback to the squad. Wainwright earned his 71st cap and started in the recent 28-21 win against Japan, standing out as the team’s most experienced forward and most effective ball-carrier.
Should Wainwright fail to prove his fitness, recalled player Taine Basham stands as the leading contender to step into the number eight role. Basham earned his squad recall following strong form in Welsh domestic rugby this season, though the Cardiff player has not featured for the national side since the 2024 Six Nations, with his previous start dating back to 2022. Scarlets back-rower Taine Plumtree provides the alternative option within the squad.
Opponent Updates and Team Status
For New Zealand, wing Will Jordan will sit out the match due to a hamstring injury, but centre Jordie Barrett has been cleared to play after passing his head injury assessment protocols. Wales currently sits fifth out of six teams in the northern hemisphere standings, having secured two victories from four matches.
Following the encounter with the All Blacks, Wales will welcome Australia on 21 November. This leads into the Nations Championship finals weekend at the end of the month, which will take place at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.
Coaching Staff Response
Wales assistant coach Dan Lydiate stated that Wainwright has not been definitively ruled out of the weekend fixture, though he acknowledged the possibility of his absence. “He picked up a bit of a knock, it’s a minor injury and he’s walking around in a boot at the minute, but it’s more precautionary,” Lydiate told BBC Sport, adding that medical staff are working to accelerate his recovery.
Lydiate highlighted the value that the Leicester forward brings to the team, describing him as a crucial leader through his carrying ability. “If that is the case, it will give someone else an opportunity, and you never know, we might find the next Aaron Wainwright,” Lydiate told BBC Sport.
