Scarlets wing Blair Murray is poised to earn his first cap for Wales in the upcoming match against the Fiji Water Flying Fijians in Cardiff on Monday. The 23-year-old, originally from New Zealand, qualifies for the Welsh team through his mother, who hails from Tonyrefail in South Wales.
Murray, who developed his skills at the Crusaders academy and played for Canterbury in New Zealand’s domestic league, joined Scarlets this summer and has participated in six games with the club. His inclusion in the Wales autumn squad places him in contention for a starting position, potentially ahead of Rio Dyer.
Reports indicate that Cardiff players Ben Thomas and Mason Grady could return to their preferred positions after adapting to different roles during the summer. Thomas, who filled the fly-half role in two Tests in Australia, is likely to shift back to inside centre. Meanwhile, Grady is expected to play on the wing beside Max Llewellyn, who has earned a recall to the squad due to his impressive performances with Gloucester.
This match will mark only Llewellyn’s second starting appearance, with the English club featuring three players in the Welsh starting lineup. Half-backs Tomos Williams and Gareth Anscombe, the latter of whom has been absent from Test rugby for over a year due to a groin injury, are also set to make their return.
Ospreys flanker Jac Morgan is facing a minor injury issue but remains a consideration as Tommy Reffell is expected to continue at number seven. Bath’s Archie Griffin has returned to fitness after a temporary heart condition and is likely to keep his position as tight-head prop. Locks Adam Beard and Will Rowlands are poised to rejoin the team after missing the summer program.
Wales enters the match against Fiji facing a challenging statistic, having lost their last nine international games, a streak that dates back more than a year. Another loss would tie the record for ten consecutive international defeats set during the 2002-2003 period under coach Steve Hansen.
The game is scheduled for 1:40 am on Monday (Fiji Time) and will be followed by a match against Australia and a significant clash with South Africa on November 23.
In summary, Blair Murray’s potential debut showcases a promising shift for the Welsh team, as they seek to break their losing streak and invigorate their performance on the international stage. The return of experienced players like Anscombe and the debut of fresh talent such as Murray could bring new energy and hope for a revitalized Welsh squad.
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