Six Nations 2025: Wales bring in Joe Roberts and Aaron Wainwright for England

2025-03-14 03:26:00

Abstract: Wales changes lineup for England match: Roberts starts on the wing, Wainwright in back row. Coach Sherratt seeks stability to end losing streak. England are title contenders.

Wales has made two changes to its starting lineup for Saturday's Six Nations finale against England in Cardiff, with Joe Roberts and Aaron Wainwright entering the starting XV. This adjustment aims to inject new energy into the team and strive for a victory on home soil.

Scarlets center Roberts will make his first start on the wing, replacing the injured Tom Rogers. Previously, Roberts performed well after coming on as a substitute in the 10th minute of the 35-29 loss to Scotland at Murrayfield, earning the trust of the coaching staff. Wainwright will replace Tommy Reffell in the back row, with Reffell dropping to the bench, and Saracens center Nick Tompkins is also among the substitutes.

Interim head coach Matt Sherratt, in his final game in charge, restrained the urge to make more starting changes. Sherratt stated that he hopes to help the team perform at its best by maintaining the stability of the lineup. The Welsh team faces the pressure of avoiding a 17th consecutive Test match loss and an 11th consecutive Six Nations defeat.

Roberts said: "Any opportunity to wear this jersey in any position is a great honor. I've never really started there, but I have some experience. Earlier, when I first started playing for the Scarlets, when I was on the bench and you had guys like Jonathan Davies and Johnny Williams, I would feature on the wing." Wainwright also expressed his excitement about returning to the starting lineup and looked forward to working alongside Taulupe Faletau and captain Jac Morgan again.

In stark contrast to Wales' losing streak, England will arrive at the Millennium Stadium as title contenders. However, if France secures a bonus-point victory against Scotland later on Saturday, France will secure the top spot. The result of this match will directly impact the final standings and championship title of this year's Six Nations.