Meet the Welsh back-row trio starring for Leicester

Tommy Reffell, Aaron Wainright and Olly Cracknell are three Welsh back-rowers making waves as stars for Leicester in the 2026 season. Despite never having played together before, the trio has started all three of Leicester's league games, including victories against Newcastle and Gloucester, and a narrow defeat to Saracens.

Wainright, Cracknell and Reffell have formed a well-rounded trio, with Wainwright and Cracknell providing ball-carrying grunt and defensive power, while Reffell is known for his masterful playing style and timing. Reffell praised their knowledge of the game, stating that they know when to carry the ball effectively.

The three players arrived at Welford Road at different times in their careers. Wainwright is the most recent addition, having played 70 internationals in a nine-year Wales career, including a Grand Slam title and two Six Nations triumphs. He moved to Leicester after spending nearly a decade at Dragons. Cracknell and Reffell, on the other hand, have also made significant contributions to Welsh rugby, with Cracknell featured in the 2026 Six Nations.

As the Tigers prepare for the start of the Champions Cup matches in Pau, Wainwright will be making his Champions Cup debut. He is one of Wales' elite back-rowers and has finally secured a spot in Europe's elite tournament. Cracknell, who made his debut for Wales in the 2026 Six Nations, is also hopeful for an international recall. The competition for spots is fierce, with several other Welsh players also making an impact in the league.