Signs of Life? Wales Push NZ Before Fading | Ben Coles on Tandy’s Rebuild & WRU Turmoil

Attacking Scrum - Wales Rugby Podcast for Welsh Rugby fans

This week on The Attacking Scrum, Ged welcomes Ben Coles from The Observer to break down Wales’ performance in their defeat to New Zealand, a match where, despite a 26–52 scoreline, there were genuine signs of progress under new head coach Steve Tandy.

Ben explains why Wales’ first 50 minutes showed far more fight and structure than many expected, from Tom Rogers’ historic hat-trick to a dominant aerial battle and a clearer tactical identity. We explore whether this marks the beginning of a rebuild or simply a rare bright spell in a turbulent era.

The conversation also dives deep into the chaos surrounding the WRU and the regional restructure, with ongoing uncertainty over which region will disappear as Welsh rugby moves from four teams to three. Ben gives insight into how the instability is affecting players, coaches, and the national side’s ability to prepare.

Looking ahead, Ged and Ben preview a daunting clash with South Africa, with Wales set to lose several players due to release regulations, and discuss what “progress” really looks like at this stage of the rebuild.

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