Wales finished their first season under Steve Tandy with a ninth defeat in 12 Tests, a 43-0 drubbing by South Africa in Durban. The Nations Championship began with a 39-21 win over Fiji in Cardiff, but heavy losses in Argentina and South Africa followed. The squad travelled 20,000 miles across six flights for two games, prompting an inquest into progress.

South Africa's gulf in class was evident as non-matchday stars like Cheslin Kolbe and Handre Pollard watched from the stands. Wales remain 12th in the world rankings, unchanged since Tandy's appointment. Only victories came against Italy, Fiji and Japan. Former hooker Scott Baldwin felt "flatter" than the 73-0 loss in 2025, noting Wales had near-full availability while South Africa fielded a weakened side.

Selection questions persist. Tandy continues to experiment at fly-half between Dan Edwards and Sam Costelow, while the centre partnership remains unsettled. Pundits urge moving physical carrier Eddie James to inside centre. Critics including Baldwin and James Hook argue Wales lack a distinct identity, unlike Scotland's recognizable game model.

Attack looked limited against the Springboks despite nine tries in the previous two matches. Tandy denied offensive concerns, but Hook said Wales appeared "lost" with ball in hand. The Nations Championship resumes in November with Japan, New Zealand and Australia awaiting in Cardiff.