Reeling from more financial strain, and still seeking a new head coach, Wales' summer tour of Japan may offer shafts of light.
Warren Gatland is shy of quality in some areas but the Wales coach's Six Nations picks must deliver if he is to keep his job.
Warren Gatland is said to be privately optimistic that with a raft of experience returning and maturing youngsters, Wales will be competitive
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.
With the Welsh regions on special measures financially and struggling, should Warren Gatland cast his net further afield?
Wales are on the ropes and in an arena where results matter, they need to give the Welsh public something to cheer about
Former Wales lock Ian Gough has criticized Cory Hill's unexpected international recall as demoralising for home-based players.
The direction of travel eastwards, over the Severn Bridge has turned from a trickle to a torrent and Wales must somehow stem the player loss
Cardiff winger Owen Lane has joined a growing number of players leaving the Welsh capital at the end of the season by agreeing a two-year deal with Pro D2 club Valence Romans.