Wales and Bristol Bears Louis Rees-Zammit has insisted he’s back to his best after producing a scintillating performance against Japan.

The winger was central to Wales’ bonus-point victory and is now relishing the prospect of facing the All Blacks this weekend at Principality Stadium.

He scored his first international try in eight Tests, reminding everyone of the threat he poses with ball in hand.

Having returned to rugby after a brief spell trying his luck in American football in the NFL, the 25-year-old admitted he now feels increasingly comfortable in his game.

Rees-Zammit back to his best? 

After his side’s 28-21 victory against the Brave Blossoms, questions arose about whether he was back to his best, but Rees-Zammit was confident in his response.

“I feel it, you know, just playing with a smile on my face, playing with confidence, always thinking I can beat defenders.

“Then the defensive side of the ball as well; I feel really good.”

His performance against Japan certainly provided evidence of that renewed confidence, with Rees-Zammit producing five of Wales’ 16 line-breaks, making an impressive 121 metres and beating 13 defenders.

The former Gloucester winger was named Player of the Match after such an influential display, offering Wales a genuine attacking threat whenever he received possession.

Rees-Zammit also discussed his return back to the wing after spending time at full-back, and made clear where his preference lies.

The All Blacks next 

Attention now turns to an altogether tougher assignment, as Steve Tandy’s side prepares to welcome an unbeaten New Zealand side to Cardiff in the Nations Championship.

The All Blacks arrive in Wales after easily defeating Scotland 43-21 on Saturday, underlining the scale of the challenge facing the hosts.

However, Rees-Zammit believes Wales have the attacking weapons to trouble the visitors, insisting his teammates must be prepared to take risks when opportunities arise.

Reflecting on last year’s heroic meeting between the sides, he pointed to the importance of Wales matching New Zealand physically before making the most of their opportunities in possession.

"It's about hard work"

“That game last year, we were in it until the last 20 minutes,” Rees-Zammit said.

“It’s about hard work, putting your body on the line against those boys.

“Then when you get the ball, and you get chances, be brave with it, be fearless, because we’ve got a really strong backline.

“We’ve got players that can play with the ball, and we’ve got players in the back-three that can finish off chances as well."

Wales have endured a difficult period, and perhaps questioning underwhelming performances shows progress, but the All Blacks offer Tandy’s side a real challenge.

After shining against Japan, Rees-Zammit is determined to carry that confidence into the meeting with Dave Rennie’s side.

“We’re going to be really brave, and just go for it,” Rees-Zammit added.

Wales' last five meetings against the All Blacks

• 22 November 2025: Wales 26-52 New Zealand (Principality Stadium)
• 5 November 2022: Wales 23-55 New Zealand (Principality Stadium) 
• 30 October 2021: Wales 16-54 New Zealand (Principality Stadium)
• 1 November 2019: New Zealand 40-17 Wales (Tokyo Stadium)
• 25 November 2017: Wales 18-33 New Zealand (Principality Stadium)