Wales’ Six Nations campaign has suffered another setback with fly-half Sam Costelow officially ruled out of Friday’s clash against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium. The 25-year-old failed to recover from an ankle injury sustained during the agonizing 26-23 home loss to Scotland in Round 3.Assistant coach Matt Sherratt confirmed on Monday that while Costelow is a non-starter for the trip to Dublin, there is hope he could return for the final tournament fixture against Italy on March 14.
The “Number 10” TussleWith Costelow sidelined, head coach Steve Tandy—who took the reins in late 2025—faces a pivotal selection dilemma. The race for the starting fly-half jersey is now a two-man shootout:Dan Edwards (Ospreys):
The 22-year-old was the mainstay of the side throughout 2025 and started the opening rounds of this campaign before being dropped to the bench for the Scotland game. His familiarity with the system makes him the frontrunner for a swift recall.Jarrod Evans (Harlequins):
The experienced playmaker has been used primarily as an impact sub this tournament. His creative flair could be seen as the key to unlocking an elite Irish defense.”There’s a real tussle going on with the 10s at the moment. It’s up to the two remaining for this week now to fight it out to start at the weekend.”
— Matt Sherratt, Wales Assistant Coach.Squad Reshuffle: Incomings and OutgoingsThe injury list continues to grow for Tandy’s squad. Along with Costelow’s short-term absence, Wales have confirmed that lock Rhys Davies and loose forward Taine Plumtree are out for the remainder of the tournament.In response, Dragons’ versatile forward Ryan Woodman has been called up to the squad, while Cardiff prop Keiron Assiratti has rejoined the group after recovering from his own knock.
