Wales Captain Dewi Lake Declared Fit for South Africa Clash

Posted : 16 July 2026

Wales have received a major boost ahead of Saturday's Nations Championship clash against South Africa after captain Dewi Lake was declared fit to start despite concerns over the injury he suffered against Argentina last weekend. Head coach Steve Tandy confirmed the hooker had successfully completed training and retained his place in the starting lineup for the encounter in Durban.

Tandy has made six changes to the side that lost 35-21 to Argentina in San Juan. Louis Rees-Zammit returns on the wing, while Ben Thomas and Max Llewellyn form a new midfield partnership. Dan Edwards starts at fly-half, Teddy Williams comes into the second row, and Alex Mann is restored to the back row as Wales look to finish their campaign on a positive note.

Lake had been considered a major doubt after limping off with a groin problem in the defeat to Argentina, prompting Wales to call up hooker Elliot Dee as cover earlier in the week. However, the skipper's recovery has allowed him to maintain his record of starting every Test under Tandy's leadership. The Wales coach praised Lake's resilience and leadership, describing him as a key figure both on and off the field.

There are further changes among the replacements, with Leicester flanker Tommy Reffell included in the matchday squad for the first time in this year's Nations Championship. Joe Hawkins and James Botham move to the bench, while scrum-half Reuben Morgan-Williams replaces Kieran Hardy among the substitutes.

Wales have also been forced into late adjustments following injuries to Ben Carter and Taine Plumtree. Carter damaged an ankle during training, while Plumtree is managing a knock, leading to Gloucester lock Freddie Thomas being drafted onto the bench only days after arriving in South Africa as injury cover. Tandy admitted the call-up represents a significant opportunity for Thomas, who has quickly integrated into the squad.

The match presents one of Wales' toughest assignments under Tandy, with the visitors taking on the reigning world champions after suffering a record 73-0 defeat to the Springboks in Cardiff last November. Despite acknowledging South Africa's physical dominance and squad depth, Tandy said his players are eager to test themselves against the world's best and produce an improved display.

Wales head into the fixture having won three and lost eight of their 11 internationals under Tandy. Following victories over the Barbarians and Fiji before defeat to Argentina, the team will hope their refreshed lineup can finish the Nations Championship on a positive note against the tournament favourites.

Wales Captain Dewi Lake Declared Fit for South Africa Clash

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