Dafydd Jenkins to miss Wales' autumn Tests, eyes December return

Exeter Chiefs lock Dafydd Jenkins has been ruled out of Wales' autumn internationals as he continues to recover from knee and shoulder surgeries.

The 21-year-old, who captained Wales during the Six Nations earlier this year, is now targeting a mid-December return for Exeter’s Investec Champions Cup clash against Toulouse.

Jenkins’ absence comes at a crucial time for Wales as they prepare to face Fiji, Australia, and reigning world champions South Africa at the Principality Stadium in their autumn series. Under head coach Warren Gatland, the Welsh team is looking to secure their first Test victory since the 2023 World Cup.

The young lock underwent surgeries earlier this summer and faced a race against time to be fit for the November 10 opener against Fiji.

However, his rehabilitation has extended beyond the autumn window, with Jenkins now setting his sights on returning to the international stage for the 2025 Six Nations.

Jenkins has indicated that he hopes to be fit in time for Exeter’s Champions Cup encounter with Toulouse in mid-December, marking his first potential appearance post-recovery. His absence will be felt by Wales, especially as the team continues to rebuild and prepare for future international campaigns.

The lock’s international ambitions are now on hold until the 2025 Six Nations, where Wales will begin their campaign against France in Paris on January 31.

“The game I am aiming for is Toulouse at home,” Jenkins said.

“So, unfortunately, I am missing the autumn. But I will definitely be up and running by the Six Nations.

“It has been horrible. It is probably the first time I have had such a long time off.

“Especially seeing the boys’ results not going their way with Exeter, it is hard because you feel you can add something to that team and hopefully get us over the line. It is definitely harder mentally, more than physically.

“It is probably just getting my body right. It’s probably the first time I have actually felt fresh in four years."

Jenkins’ recovery and return to form will be critical for both Exeter and Wales as they look ahead to a challenging season filled with crucial fixtures.