Wales are without a Test victory since the 2023 World Cup.
Warren Gatland is said to be privately optimistic that with a raft of experience returning and maturing youngsters, Wales will be competitive
Having a legendary player or partnership in a team does not often create too many problems, but one may be that it takes years, and sometimes generations, to find replacements.
Cardiff lock Teddy Williams has been called into Wales' squad to replace Ben Carter, who has been released after suffering a knee injury in training.
Wales's autumn prospects are boosted by returning stars, but their first job is to end a nine-Test losing run.
Springboks great Albert van den Berg says he would love to put one over on his former coach Jake White.
After two tough years at the helm, the former scrum-half can see brighter times ahead for Scarlets.
As a new United Rugby Championship (URC) season approaches, we take a closer look at the physical makeup of the 16 sides competing for silverware.