Six Nations 2026: Record-breaker Alex Mann makes mark for Wales

Tandy was only able to pick captain Jack Morgan for one game after the Lions winger dislocated his shoulder when scoring against Argentina in their opening match of the autumn.

The Gloucester-bound Ospreys striker should return for summer matches against Fiji, Argentina and South Africa in the Championship of Nations.

Wales fielded Mann, influential number eight Aaron Wainwright, Botham, Ollie Cracknell, Tyne Plumtree, Josh McLeod and Harry Davies for the Six Nations.

The legendary Faletau, Ryan Woodman, Tommy Revell, Christ Chonza, Kane James, Ross Moriarty and Basham are among a wealth of other options, with Dejan Gwynne also impressing in the Under-20 Six Nations.

Chief Tandy, a former team member, has a lot to think about.

Lydiate was part of a legendary back-row trio with Sam Warburton and Faletau who was joined by another star talent in Justin Tipuric.

“It’s communication. I knew what other people had to offer, so it’s about putting the pieces of the puzzle together,” Lydiat said.

“When you have that synergy, the number you carry doesn’t matter because you know what the others are going to offer. You try to complement each other.

“We’ve been going through a bit of a transition and finding out who the best groups are. We’re probably still on that journey.”

The versatile Mann will make his fifth Test start of the season at the blindside – having started exclusively at Cardiff in 2025-26 – but is comfortable at the openside.

“He’s a very good rugby player and you know what he’s going to give no matter how many numbers he has on his back,” Lydiat said.

“We have to have Jack back in the group, he is world class. The boys at the moment are setting the bar for others to set themselves higher than if they wanted to take the shirts away from them.”

After a strong campaign, Mann will be hoping to sign off with a first Six Nations win.