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Louie Hennessey Out as Wales Open Tour Without Key Centre

BBC Sport •
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Centre Louie Hennessey will miss Wales’ summer internationals after doctors confirmed a damaged shoulder. The Bath player, who has been a mainstay in the national setup, will undergo treatment before the tour. His absence comes as Wales prepare for a tight schedule beginning with a Barbarians double‑header at Allianz Stadium.

Wales will open the series with a 14:00 BST clash against the Barbarians, followed by the women's game at 17:00. The venue, chosen by the home side, sits beside the Principality Stadium, which hosts non‑rugby events this summer, including a Metallica concert in Cardiff on June 28.

Following the Barbarians, Wales will face Fiji at Cardiff City Stadium on July 4, then travel to Argentina in San Juan on July 11 and to South Africa in Durban on July 18. These away fixtures test the squad’s depth without Hennessey, a key centre for the national side.

Hennessey’s sidelined status leaves Wales with a thinner backline as the team tackles a demanding tour. Coaches will rely on younger options to fill the gap, while fans hope the centre regains fitness before the crucial World Rugby biennial competition stages.