The 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup may still be 500 days away but representatives from team Wales are already hard at work trying to get an edge – including meeting with Crows representatives at Adelaide Oval last week.

Wales Head Coach Steve Tandy travelled to Adelaide on a reconnaissance mission alongside Team and Operations Manager Martyn Williams and Head of Physical Performance Huw Bennett, with the trio visiting the stadiums their side will play in at next year’s tournament, including Adelaide Oval.

The group took a tour of the venue with Rugby World Cup officials and took the opportunity to watch the Crows’ AFL side during their captain’s run.

Following the session, they met with the Club’s coaching and high-performance team, as well as forwards Darcy Fogarty and Josh Rachele. 

After standing on Adelaide Oval for the first time, Tandy said he was impressed by what he had seen and expects an incredible atmosphere when they return to Adelaide in just over 16 months’ time.

“The stadium is absolutely amazing," he said.  

"Just speaking to the (Adelaide Crows) guys, the crowds they get, it’s an amazing atmosphere. It’s absolutely special and we can’t wait to come back here and play.

“It’s definitely different (AFL). It’s a little bit smoother, the skills they’ve got – the aerial catching and kicking is amazing and the ball is slightly different, similar in shape but a little bit heavier as well. 

“I think all the facilities we’ve seen, we’re very lucky, all the venues look amazing.

“I think fans will be excited, hopefully there’ll be lots of support for Wales and coming to Australia, it’s an amazing spot.”

Adelaide is set for an unforgettable Rugby World Cup experience, hosting six compelling pool phase matches and delivering three consecutive doubleheader weekends that will transform the city into a vibrant rugby festival.

Wales will begin their tournament campaign against Zimbabwe at Adelaide Oval on October 2.

Australia is hosting the most ambitious Rugby World Cup to date in 2027: 6 weeks, 7 weekends, 52 matches across 19 match days, delivering a truly global celebration of rugby.

Tuesday, May 19 marks 500 days to go until Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 alongside the Ticket Application Phase opening for fans to secure their tickets.