​There is a Welsh derby in each of the first five rounds of the URC [Huw Evans Picture Agency]There was western relief after Ospreys and Scarlets got up and running in the 2026-27 United Rugby Championship (URC) season.The two sides are playing amid uncertainty over their futures under controversial Welsh Rugby Union plans, yet produced the goods on the pitch in round three.Ospreys won an engrossing derby against Dragons at Rodney Parade, inflicting a first defeat of the season on their hosts, while Scarlets sneaked past Benetton thanks to Sam Costelow’s late penalty.Cardiff, who started with two wins from two, showed spirit in defeat by champions Leinster but left Dublin with nothing to show for their efforts.There were 24 tries scored in the three games involving Welsh sides, with the interesting subplot of the scrap for international selection.Steve Tandy was given plenty to ponder before naming his Wales squad for the Nations Championship on 20 October.WRU publishes data on why west Wales team will be cutMetcalfe back in Wales WXV reckoning for JapanRogers grasps chance at 15Tom Rogers scored a hat-trick for Wales against New Zealand in November 2025 [Huw Evans Picture Agency]Tom Rogers made the short move to Ospreys from Scarlets with the intention of playing predominantly as a full-back.Head coach Mark Jones sees things slightly differently, insisting the 27-year-old was signed as a hybrid back.Rogers started on the right wing against both Sharks and Lions before getting the 15 jersey against Dragons and winning man of the match.He was a running threat throughout and showed his bravery in defence when putting his body on the line as last man to force a knock-on by number eight Harri Keddie.”I really loved the way that he beat the first man almost every time to get us on the front foot,” said Jones.”Other than one speculative chip, his decision-making about when to bring it back and when to kick it was spot on.”I loved the way he worked in the backfield and filled space. He has made a great start in that position and it will be interesting to see how the others respond.”Swansea lose first game at revamped St Helen’sScarlets find their swaggerEllis Mee started in four of Wales’ Six Nations fixtures in 2026 [Huw Evans Picture Agency]Scarlets were staring down the barrel when trailing 21-7 at half-time against Benetton, and it was the Italians that started the second half stronger.The match was ultimately won by Sam Costelow’s late penalty but it was swung by the home side’s back three, perhaps showing why Rogers opted for a change of scene.Full-back Blair Murray won the player of the match award after being a constant menace with ball in hand and coming up with a crucial interception.That try was followed by a stunning finish by Ellis Mee after a break by fellow wing Macs Page, who continued his strong start to the season with a grubber, gather and perfect pass to the right.Mee scored his second with fast footwork and, after starting against Ar