Exeter’s James in mix for Wales debut in Argentina

July 9, 2026 No Comments

Exeter’s James in mix for Wales debut in ArgentinaImage source, Huw Evans Picture AgencyImage caption, Kane James made his Exeter debut in March 2025Published38 minutes agoWales are considering giving Exeter back-row forward Kane James a Test debut against Argentina in the Nations Championship.The 21-year-old is in contention for a place on the bench to face the Pumas in San Juan on Saturday (20:10 BST).Head coach Steve Tandy is poised to freshen up his side after starting the Nations Championship with a win against Fiji at Cardiff City Stadium.

Wales fielded a starting trio of Alex Mann, Jac Morgan and Aaron Wainwright in the back row with James Botham and Taine Plumtree coming off the bench.

James could win his first cap against Argentina after a breakthrough season with Prem runners-up Exeter.

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The former England Under-20s flanker made 18 appearances for the Chiefs and came off the bench in the final defeat by Northampton at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.

James was in contention for a place in Tandy’s Six Nations squad only to suffer an ankle injury against Cardiff in January.

Now he could make his first international appearance against Argentina in a fixture that is followed by a trip to Durban to face South Africa on Saturday, 18 July (16:40 BST).

Head coach Tandy is scheduled to name his matchday squad on Thursday.