Wales star weighs up Welsh rugby return with World Cup dream in balance

11:21, 29 Sep 2026Updated 11:22, 29 Sep 2026

Christ Tshiunza is pondering a move back to Wales to chase his Rugby World Cup dream, WalesOnline has learnt.

The 24-year-old became ineligible to represent Wales due to the controversial 25-cap law after opting to leave Exeter Chiefs for Sale Sharks.

Wales head coach Steve Tandy wants to have Tshiunza available for selection, but the Professional Rugby Board voted against making an exception of the talented forward.

But Tshiunza has only signed a one-year contract with Sale and that has put Cardiff, Dragons, the Ospreys and Scarlets on red alert.

If Tshiunza wants to represent Wales at next year's Rugby World Cup in Australia he will have to sign for a Welsh club, having only won 15 caps for his country to date.

But the uncertainty that still hangs over the game in Wales, with the Welsh Rugby Union still planning to cut the number of professional clubs from four to three, makes things difficult.

Having Tshiunza available would be a big boost for Tandy given his ability to play in both the second-row and the backrow.

Wales do have other options in this area but Tshiunza offers something a bit different to the other options with his size and athleticism.

"It's a shame. We have been keeping an eye on him, but there's been a process and he's been deemed unavailable for us through the 25-cap law," Tandy said in June.

"As a coach you want it all, don't you? I wasn't here when that policy was put in place and I don't think it is fair for me to voice what I think about it.

"I'm disappointed for Christ, but ultimately there are procedures that are put in place that we have to follow.

"I want as many Welsh-qualified players available to us because we haven't got a massive pool. Ultimately you've got to follow the process."

Tshiunza made a promising start to his international career but a series of injuries has derailed his progress.

But he finished last season strongly, scoring a sensational individual try in Exeter's stunning Gallagher Prem semi-final victory over Bath at the Rec.

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