Rees will continue to lead the Wales Sevens side

Ospreys flanker Richie Pugh retains the captain's armband, with flanker Dai Rees continuing as coach.

"It's been tough once again identifying available players that fit our criteria for Sevens in a busy regional and international period," said Rees.

"The regions have released some key development guys and experienced men."

Last year, in their first season back in Sevens action since 2002, Wales lifted the Plate Trophy in all four tournaments they competed in - Dubai, George, the Commonwealth Games and Hong Kong.

"We are victims of our own success in terms of players such as James Hook and Wayne Evans securing firm places within their regional squads, making them unavailable for the Sevens series this season," said Rees.

"Our objectives are to ensure the development of a number of youngsters, which comes from exposing them to a world-class competition environment."

Wales will compete at six tournaments this season - Dubai, George, Adelaide, Hong Kong, Scotland and England.

Wales Sevens squad: Richie Pugh (Ospreys, capt), Lee Beach (Ospreys), Gareth Chapman (Ospreys), Jonathan Edwards (Llanelli RFC), James Harris (Dragons Academy/Bedwas RFC), Thomas James (Blues Academy/Cardiff RFC), Alec Jenkins (Scarlets Academy/Llanelli RFC), Rhodri McAtee (Penzance), Richard Mustoe (Ospreys), Tal Selley (Ospreys), Aled Thomas (Dragons), Martyn Thomas (Scarlets Academy/Llanelli RFC), Lee Williams (Scarlets Academy/Llanelli RFC).