The Ospreys star is expected to come into contention for Wales once he qualifies on residency grounds
Ospreys playmaker Jack Walsh is reportedly in talks over a move to Japan – despite being firmly on Wales’ eligibility radar ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
According to RugbyPass, the Florida-born utility back has been speaking to clubs in Japan Rugby League One about a switch next season.
The 26-year-old qualifies for Wales on residency grounds shortly before the next World Cup, potentially handing head coach Steve Tandy another option in the backline.
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Walsh, who can operate at fly-half or full-back, joined the Ospreys in 2022 after two seasons with Exeter Chiefs, who are also understood to have explored the option of bringing him back to Sandy Park.
He previously came through the NSW Waratahs system and represented Australia at Under-18s and Sevens level.
WalesOnline reported in December that Walsh was expected to come into contention for international honours once he meets the five-year residency requirement and is one of a number of players on Tandy’s radar.
Ospreys head coach Mark Jones said at the time he had “no doubt” Walsh would interest the national set-up.
“He’s definitely somebody who would interest the national coaches if he becomes eligible,” Jones said.
“When you look at his skillset he’s got a little bit of everything. We know he’s got the capability to attack the line. He’s a running threat and his skillset is very, very good.
“He’s improving his kicking all the time and I think you saw on the weekend his aerial stuff is very consistent as well.
“Walshy has been great in the environment. His leadership has been very, very good this year with everything that’s going on.”
Jones also backed him to step up to Test rugby if given the opportunity.
“Test level is a different animal isn’t it… but every time I’ve seen Jack in our shirt and whenever the challenges have got bigger he’s got bigger and risen to it.”
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Walsh himself has previously admitted he would consider representing Wales, telling WalesOnline in 2024: “There’s no doubt I’d consider it… If that stuff comes along I’d take it with both hands.”
However, a potential move to Japan could complicate matters.
While players based overseas remain eligible for Wales under current selection rules, any switch would raise questions about his long-term international ambitions.
Walsh is also eligible to represent Australia and the United States, though his comments in recent years suggested a genuine desire to pull on the red jersey.