TENNIS

Hope for Wales as Gatland Eyes Potential Return of Louis Rees-Zammit

January, 22, 2025-02:14

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Hope for Wales as Gatland Eyes Potential Return of Louis Rees-Zammit :

Wales enters the 2025 Six Nations campaign as the heavy favorites to finish at the bottom of the table, following a winless 2024 season in which they ended up with the dreaded wooden spoon. Their struggles continued throughout the year, and the team has failed to secure a victory in their last 12 international matches. In the midst of this challenging situation, Warren Gatland is doing his best to keep morale high and prepare for what will undoubtedly be a tough Six Nations campaign.

One glimmer of hope for Gatland’s squad is the potential return of winger Louis Rees-Zammit, who has made a name for himself with 14 tries in 32 rugby Tests before deciding to switch codes and pursue a career in American football with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Gatland has expressed his desire to have Rees-Zammit back in the fold, saying, “We would love to have him back if he was available to us.” However, the situation is uncertain. Gatland mentioned that Rees-Zammit is still under contract with Jacksonville, and it remains to be seen whether he will return to rugby.

"I haven’t spoken to him," Gatland admitted, but he made it clear that if Rees-Zammit does decide to return, he would be welcomed with open arms. The Welsh coach acknowledged the difficulty of such a decision, recognizing that Rees-Zammit’s move to American football was a significant one, and it might not be easy to walk away from that after just 12 months. "Is 12 months enough to say you’ve tried?" Gatland questioned, leaving open the possibility that the winger could eventually make his way back to rugby.

However, regardless of whether Rees-Zammit returns or not, Wales' focus remains firmly on the 2025 Six Nations, which promises to be another challenging season. One of the key fixtures is their second-round clash against Italy in Rome, a match that could prove pivotal for Gatland’s tenure as coach. If Wales were to lose that game, it might signal the end of Gatland’s reign. Given the difficult financial situation of Welsh rugby, a mid-tournament dismissal would not be financially devastating, unlike the potential cost of sacking him in December. With the pressure mounting, Wales desperately need a win in that crucial encounter to avoid further turmoil and uncertainty.