Ospreys head coach Mark Jones has thrown his support behind Jac Morgan as the ideal candidate to lead Wales in the 2025 Six Nations. Morgan, a standout performer for both club and country, could once again wear the captain’s armband following a stellar previous stint.
The captaincy question has arisen due to Dewi Lake’s unavailability. Lake, who captained Wales during their summer tour of Australia and the autumn internationals, is recovering from bicep surgery and is unlikely to feature at the start of the championship. There is even a possibility he might miss the entire tournament.
Another contender for the role is Dafydd Jenkins of Exeter. Jenkins led Wales in the 2024 Six Nations and has recently returned to fitness, adding another layer of intrigue to head coach Warren Gatland’s upcoming decision. Gatland is set to announce his squad on Monday, 13 January.
Speaking about Morgan’s credentials, Mark Jones expressed full confidence in his Ospreys star. “Without a doubt, Jac is more than capable of leading Wales again,” Jones said. “He did a phenomenal job previously. Dewi has stepped up admirably in Jac’s absence and made the role his own, but now Jac is back and ready to lead if called upon.”
Jones highlighted the unique situation at Ospreys, with two recent Welsh captains among their ranks. “We’re fortunate to have two players of such high caliber. Whether it’s Jac or Dewi, Wales will be in safe hands. Both have incredible leadership qualities and will excel if chosen.”
While Lake’s absence is a blow, there’s optimism surrounding his recovery. Initially expected to be sidelined for 12 weeks following surgery in December, Lake could potentially return for the final two matches of the Six Nations. “The feedback has been very positive,” Jones said. “Dewi is working extremely hard, and both the Welsh Rugby Union and our own medical team are pleased with his progress. We’re taking it day by day, but things are looking good.”
Meanwhile, Ospreys’ second-row Rhys Davies, who was tipped for a breakthrough year, faces an uncertain path. After an impressive return from a nine-month knee injury, Davies has experienced renewed swelling following his New Year’s Day performance. As a result, Davies has been ruled out of Ospreys’ European clash against Newcastle Falcons, putting his Wales selection in jeopardy just days before Gatland’s squad announcement.
“We’ve decided to pull Rhys out of contention this week due to the swelling,” Jones revealed. “He’s been through a lot with this injury, and the last thing we want is to compromise his recovery. He’s undergoing treatment, and we’re hopeful it’s nothing serious, but we’re waiting on a clearer diagnosis.”
As Wales gear up for the 2025 Six Nations, all eyes will be on Warren Gatland’s squad announcement. With key players like Jac Morgan, Dafydd Jenkins, and potentially Dewi Lake vying for leadership, the championship promises to be a thrilling test of Wales’ depth and resilience.
