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World Sports

Wales Select Powerful Centre Pairing for Japan Test

Wales Select Powerful Centre Pairing for Japan Test
World Sports · 06:56:53 - Saturday, 7 November 2026

Wales have named a formidable centre combination for their upcoming test match against Japan, pairing Gloucester's Max Llewellyn with Scarlets' Eddie James in the midfield. The duo brings a combined 24 international caps to the starting lineup, with Llewellyn earning 13 appearances for Wales and James adding 11 caps since his debut.

The selection signals an intent to combine physicality and creativity in the centre channel against the Japanese side. Llewellyn, who plies his trade at Gloucester in the English Premiership, has established himself as a reliable defensive presence with an expanding attacking game. James, representing the Scarlets in the United Rugby Championship, offers pace and distribution skills that complement his partner's direct running.

Welsh coaches will be hoping this partnership can unlock a Japanese defence that has proven resilient in recent international campaigns. The match represents another opportunity for Wales to build cohesion ahead of a busy international schedule, with both centres looking to cement their places in the starting XV for the foreseeable future.

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