The latest rugby news stories emerging from Wales and beyond
James Williams of Bristol Bears kicks a conversion to beat Sale Sharks(Image: 2026 Getty Images)
Here are the latest rugby headlines on Saturday, January 3.
Welsh-qualified centre makes case again
Bristol’s Welsh-qualified centre James Williams is pushing for Wales consideration after proving the match-winner in his side’s narrow 19-17 comeback victory over Sale Sharks that sent them top of the English Prem.
Williams set up and calmly converted the match-winning try for Kalaveti Ravouvou as his break put the defence on the back foot to create the chance for Ravouvou late on.
The 28-year-old was praised by Bristol Live for his mixture of power and soft hands throughout the game, while he has been compared to Roy Keane by coach Pat Lam due to his consistency and leadership skills that act as the glue that makes the Bears tick.
Lam believes his is capable of making the step up to international rugby and has recently rewarded him with a new contract after a string of impressive performances over the past three seasons. He was born in England but has never received international honours, appearing once for the Barbarians in 2023.
Wales coach Steve Tandy has spoken publicly about his desire to identify and entice Welsh-qualified players playing outside of Wales as he looks to expand the player pool.
Williams, whose mother represented Wales as a cross country runner, could come into consideration for the Six Nations due to his maturity and the level at which he is operating in such a competitive league. Wales’ other centre options include Ben Thomas and Joe Hawkins, with all three also capable of playing 10. Gloucester centre Max Llewellyn, who was first choice 13 during the autumn, is likely to miss the Six Nations with injury.
“One thing I’ll back Jimmy on is he will compete and fight for everything,” Lam told WalesOnline’s Welsh Rugby Podcast previously.
“He’s probably like the Roy Keane of our team attitude wise. He won’t give in and he’ll fight for everything.
“My twelves are really important. They need to be able to play 10, drive the game and have second eyes.”
Wales star pulled from team
Wales star Tomos Williams was pulled from the Gloucester team shortly before kick off after failing a late fitness test. The English club announced the news on Friday night but have not specified what the problem is.
The club captain proved to be a huge miss after being replaced by Mikey Austin, with the Cherry and Whites losing to bottom side Newcastle Red Bulls as their alarming form continued to heap pressure on boss George Skivington.
He has faced a backlash from fans, with some claiming his position is now untenable after five years in charge. A new director of rugby is set to be installed from next season but the suggestion is Skivington will remain as a key part of the set-up.
Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake are due to arrive at Kingsholm in the summer, while Williams is departing for Saracens.
Wales star misses Prem clash
Wales openside Tommy Reffell will miss out on Leicester Tigers’ Prem clash on Sunday after suffering a concussion against Exeter Chiefs.
The openside, who was overlooked by Wales in the autumn, is replaced by Sam Williams – who makes his first start in the league.
Leicester are able to call upon Welsh duo Nicky Smith and Olly Cracknell as they look to bounce back from the defeat to Exeter.
“Tommy Reffell is going through his GRTP protocols after his concussion last week, so Sam gets his first opportunity to start in the Prem for us after impressing with his defensive physicality and work rate,” said Leicester head coach Geoff Parling.
“We know Saracens are a team with both aerial and physical threats and we look forward to welcoming them to Mattioli Woods Welford Road.”