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Despite playing for England U20s, Kane James has decided to play for Wales at senior level in a big boost for Steve Tandy
Uncapped Wales back-row Kane James has made an instant impact in camp, according to his coaches and team-mates.
The 21-year-old has made the cut for Steve Tandy’s 33-man squad for the Nations Championship this summer, with it likely he will make his Test debut in the coming weeks.
With Wales playing three Tests across three weekends in three different continents, it seems likely most – if not all – of Tandy’s 33-man squad will see action in the coming weeks against Fiji, Argentina and South Africa.
The Exeter Chiefs youngster is perhaps the most exciting name in Tandy’s squad, given the potential that was previously on display for England U20s.
James, despite age-grade rugby for England, has always been viewed as a future Wales international. Bosses in the Welsh Rugby Union have long been confident he would wear the red jersey – with only injury keeping him out of a Six Nations call-up earlier this year.
Having recovered from that lengthy spell on the sidelines, James was brought into Tandy’s extended summer squad for his first senior call-up.
And, despite having a short period of time to impress after joining camp later than the Welsh-based players, James is said to have already caught the eye.
“We’ve seen a lot of him obviously playing for Exeter,” said attack coach Matt Sherratt. “The first session he came in, he had an immediate impact.
“He’s really busy, very powerful, he’s quick, he’s got a good skill set – it’s the first time I’ve seen that up close – and his soft skills are good.
“He’s very enthusiastic, coachable. So I think he’s got a big, big, big future with Wales.”
One of James’ new team-mates with Wales, second-row Ben Carter, was equally effusive about the new face in the squad.
“He’s very energetic – off the field as well,” said the Dragons lock. “He’s seems full of energy.
“He’s very quick to get on the field and he’s very quick around the field as well. You notice when he’s there.
“He seems like he’s settled right in. I’ve enjoyed getting to know him.”
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