Rugby union was first played in Wales during the 1850s, but it took around 30 years for the national team to form. The Wales rugby team played their first game in 1881 – a comprehensive loss against England – and they joined the Home Nations Championship two years later.
Wales then entered into a golden age during the early 20th century. The Welsh team won the Home Nations in 1900, 1902, 1905, 1906, 1908 and 1909. During this period, they also defeated New Zealand during the side’s 35-match tour of the northern hemisphere - they were the only team to do so!
Fast-forward to the professional era of rugby union and Wales have remained strong. In testament to their skill, Wales have consistently featured inside the top 10 of World Rugby Rankings. In 2019, they ended New Zealand’s 508-week stint as world number one.
Wales Rugby Players
As one of rugby’s finest sides, the Wales rugby team has historically been littered with the game’s finest players. This includes many Hall of Fame members such as Gareth Edwards and Ieuan Evans.
Today, the team is in a very strong position and the current Wales rugby squad is one of the best in recent memory. It features many of the sport’s top stars, such as wing Louis Rees-Zammit, prop Tomas Francis and centre George North.