The new head coach takes charge of his first match since succeeding interim boss Matt Sherratt, with Wales looking to build on their modest summer victory over Japan that ended an 18-match losing run.
Tandy’s message ahead of his debut fixture – for which Louis Rees-Zammit will be launched from the bench - was simple: embrace the occasion and relish the opportunity of representing the nation.
“It’s a real privilege to announce my first matchday 23 for Wales,” said Tandy.
“I just want to see that 23 really go out there and express themselves on Sunday and enjoy every moment of representing the country in such a unique and special jersey.”
Tandy has made seven changes from the side that defeated Japan in July.
Saracens loosehead Rhys Carre returns for his first international start since 2023, while Bristol Bears wing Rees-Zammit is set for his long-awaited comeback from the bench after more than two years away from Test rugby.
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The 24-year-old’s inclusion comes after a turbulent 18 months in which he swapped rugby for American football, signing briefly with the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars before returning to rugby in the summer.
A toe injury delayed his Bristol debut, but after weeks of rehabilitation, the flying winger is fit again and ready to pull on the red jersey.
Wales assistant coach Danny Wilson said earlier this week that Rees-Zammit’s return offered an “exciting challenge” for the new coaching team as they look to balance experience and flair.
Tandy echoed that sentiment, acknowledging the buzz around the squad as Rees-Zammit and several other key players return.
“Having players like Louis back gives us real excitement and energy,” said Tandy.
“He’s trained hard, worked his way back, and now he’s ready to contribute again. We just want him, and everyone else, to enjoy what they do and bring their strengths to the game.”
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Tandy’s first team sheet features a mix of experience and new opportunity.
The Osreys’ Dan Edwards, who impressed in the summer series, retains the No. 10 shirt and will partner British and Irish Lion Tomos Williams at half-back.
Ben Thomas starts at inside centre alongside Max Llewellyn, while Josh Adams, Tom Rogers and Blair Murray form a lively back three.
In the pack, Carre lines up alongside Keiron Assiratti and hooker Dewi Lake, with Adam Beard and Dafydd Jenkins combining at lock.
Captain Jac Morgan leads a mobile back row alongside Aaron Wainwright and 21-year-old flanker Alex Mann.
Among the replacements is uncapped Leicester Tigers No. 8 Olly Cracknell, who could make his international debut after being drafted into the squad as injury cover for Taulupe Faletau.
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Tandy said he was delighted to see the former Ospreys man earn his chance.
“Olly’s impressed us since he came into camp, but I’ve known Olly a long time,” Tandy said.
“I was lucky enough to coach him at the Ospreys. He’s an unbelievable professional and you see Olly’s had to have resilience throughout his career.
“He’s shown that, whether it be London Irish, then he goes to Leicester, plays minutes every week and he’s battle-hardened and he’s performing at a big club.
“So, I’m just excited to see that transfer to the international arena.”
Tandy, who spent six years as Scotland’s defence coach before returning home to lead Wales, inherits a team in transition but against a background of domestic chaos, turmoil, uncertainty and chronic under-achievement.
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His emphasis on positivity is an attemt to rise above the sticky stuff.
“Enjoyment and connection are at the heart of what we want to build,” he said.
“These players care deeply about representing Wales. The key for us is to play with freedom, but also with discipline and togetherness.
“We’ve made some changes to the daily routine and the players have responded really well — there’s a freshness about the group.”
Argentina arrive in Cardiff with a powerful squad boasting physicality up front and flair behind, providing an early test of Tandy’s new era.
Wales will also face Japan, New Zealand, and world champions South Africa later this autumn — a formidable first month for the new regime.
For Tandy, this weekend is about setting the tone.
“It’s the start of something new,” he said.
“We want to build connections between players, coaches, and supporters — and that begins by showing pride in the jersey and enjoying the opportunity.
“When you play for Wales, you’re part of something very special. I just want the boys to go ends out there, express themselves, and make the country proud.”
Wales XV to face Argentina in Cardiff (Sunday 9 November, 3.10pm GMT): 1 Rhys Carre, 2 Dewi Lake, 3 Keiron Assiratti; 4 Dafydd Jenkins, 5 Adam Beard; 6 Alex Mann, 7 Jac Morgan (capt.), 8 Aaron Wainwright; 9 Tomos Williams, 10 Dan Edwards; 11 Josh Adams, 12 Ben Thomas, 13 Max Llewellyn, 14 Tom Rogers; 15 Blair Murray.
Replacements: 16 Liam Belcher, 17 Nicky Smith, 18 Archie Griffin, 19 Freddie Thomas, 20 Olly Cracknell; 21 Kieran Hardy, 22 Jarrod Evans, 23 Louis Rees-Zammit.
