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Wales tipped to unleash new Mike Phillips as World Cup question emerges

There is a vacancy to fill at scrum-half after Kieran Hardy's injury

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 10:52 AM
Wales tipped to unleash new Mike Phillips as World Cup question emerges
Key Things to Know
  • Dragons scrum-half Che Hope is tipped for a Wales chance following an injury to Kieran Hardy.
  • A former international coach compared 23-year-old Hope to former Wales star Mike Phillips.
  • Wales Online argues Wales faces a significant drop-off in scrum-half depth behind first-choice Tomos Williams.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Dragons youngster Che Hope is positioned to earn an opportunity with Wales following an injury to scrum-half Kieran Hardy. With depth behind first-choice nine Tomos Williams viewed as an ongoing concern, a prominent former international coach reportedly compared the 23-year-old Hope to Mike Phillips, touting him as a potential long-term successor capable of providing a dynamic attacking threat.

Wales Online highlights Wales' need for proven international alternatives ahead of the Rugby World Cup, noting Ospreys' Reuben Morgan-Williams as another contender. Meanwhile, veteran 36-year-old Gareth Davies delivered an impressive display for the Scarlets, prompting Bridgend coach Scott Baldwin to suggest Wales should consider trying to persuade Davies out of international retirement.

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