Wales wing Josh Adams has been handed a three-match suspension following his red card in Saturday’s Quilter Nations Series clash with Japan (15 November 2025). Adams was initially sent to the bunker review with a yellow card, by referee Matthew Carley for a dangerous clear-out on Japan wing Kippei Ishida
Adams appeared before an independent Disciplinary Committee via video link on Monday. The panel — chaired by Jeremy Summers (England) with Stefan Terblanche (South Africa) and Val Toma (Romania) — considered the red card issued for foul play contrary to Law 9.11 (reckless or dangerous play).
The committee upheld the on-field decision, ruling that Adams’ actions met the threshold for a red card. Applying World Rugby’s sanctioning framework, they determined that a mid-range entry point of six weeks was appropriate.
However, Adams received the maximum 50% mitigation, reducing the suspension to three weeks. Mitigating factors included his acceptance of guilt, disciplined record, and conduct throughout the process.
His ban covers the following fixtures:
- 22 November 2025 – Wales vs New Zealand, Quilter Nations Series
- 29 November 2025 – Wales vs South Africa, Quilter Nations Series
- 6 December 2025 – Stade Français vs Cardiff Rugby, EPCR Challenge Cup*
*Adams has been granted permission to apply for World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme, which can replace the final match of his suspension if successfully completed. The programme focuses on modifying specific techniques contributing to foul play.
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