James takes over as Wales scrum coach

Wales have appointed Paul James as the national team's permanent scrum coach.

The 44-year-old former Ospreys and Bath prop, who won 66 caps for Wales, previously took on the role on a temporary basis during the 2026 Six Nations following a training injury to Duncan Jones.

Prior to joining Steve Tandy's backroom staff, James had been coaching with Ospreys since December 2018 and was scrum and set-piece coach for Wales Under-20s in 2021.

James will work closely with Danny Wilson who has responsibility for the lineout and contact area.

Currently with Ospreys, James will start his new role with Wales this summer as the squad prepares for the inaugural Nations Championship which kicks off in July.

"I've loved my time at Ospreys and Swansea but this is an incredible opportunity and it's a huge honour to be joining the Wales coaching team," James said.

"It was great to work with Steve and the group during the Six Nations and I can't wait to get back in and build on that."

James will also coach players outside of international campaign windows to continue their development and progression.

During his international career, James played at the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups and featured in the 2012 Grand Slam and 2013 Six Nations Championship successes.

He also made 232 appearances for Ospreys, second on the all-time list for the club, winning four league titles and the EDF Energy Cup.

Tandy said: "It was impressive how quickly Paul got up to speed at short notice during the Six Nations and we're excited to have him with us now full-time.

"Paul is a great coach and I know he will give his all to help accelerate the development of our young squad."

Wales face Barbarians on 27 June before Nations Championship games against Fiji, Argentina and South Africa.