Wales captain Jac Morgan will miss the remainder of the Autumn Nations Series after dislocating a shoulder while scoring a try in Sunday’s 52-28 defeat to Argentina. He will be unavailable for the remaining fixtures against Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.
Uncapped Ospreys flanker Harri Deaves has been called into the squad as Morgan’s replacement.
Head coach Steve Tandy said the squad were devastated to lose Morgan, describing him as a world-class player and a great character off the field. He added that the injury creates an opportunity for someone else to step up, and noted Deaves has been performing strongly and consistently for the Ospreys.
Saturday’s game with Japan (5.40pm kick-off) takes on added significance for Wales in the race to finish 12th in the world rankings and secure a place in Band 2 for the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw on 3 December. Wales sit 12th and Japan 13th; the nation finishing 12th after the Autumn Nations Series will go into Band 2, while 13th would drop into Band 3 and face a tougher pool. Japan were the side Wales beat in July to end a run of 18 straight defeats.