Elliot Dee in Wales squad for Japan summer tour

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Elliot Dee has been named in Wales’ squad for the tour of Japan this summer.

The Dragons RFC hooker, who counts Newbridge, Penallta, Bedwas and Cross Keys among his former clubs, will be part of the 33-man squad in July.

Dee, who hails from Newbridge, will be joined by Dragons teammate Chris Coleman. The prop, who is also a former Cross Keys player, will be hoping to earn his first international caps in the far east.

The two-test series will see Wales face the Brave Blossoms in Kitakyushu on July 5, before a rematch in Kobe on July 12 – as Wales look to end a 17-game losing streak dating back to the 2023 World Cup.

Wales will be without both Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams, who will be touring Australia this summer with the British and Irish Lions.

Cardiff Rugby coach Matt Sherratt, who served as interim Wales head coach for three matches at this year’s doomed Six Nations campaign, will resume the role for the Japan games – with a permanent successor to Warren Gatland yet to be appointed.

Sherratt’s coaching team will consist of former Wales internationals Gethin Jenkins, Adam Jones, and T. Rhys Thomas, as well as Harlequins head coach Danny Wilson.

‘In safe hands’

WRU chief executive Abi Tierney said: “We are very grateful to Matt for agreeing to pick up the reins again with the Wales senior men’s side, on an interim basis for the Japan tour.

“The impact and positive difference he made to the squad in a very short period of time during the Six Nations was welcomed.

“It was a tough campaign but we know we are in safe hands whilst we complete the final stages of our recruitment process for a new permanent head coach.”