Wales are giving their star number eight, Taulupe Faletau, every opportunity to prove his fitness for the second Test against Japan in Kobe. The 34-year-old missed Tuesday's outdoor training session after being substituted in the 56th minute during Wales' 24-19 defeat to the Brave Blossoms in Kitakyushu.

Interim head coach Matt Sherratt described Faletau's substitution as a tactical decision, but the British and Irish Lions back row appeared to be struggling in the intense heat. Wales scrum coach Adam Jones emphasized the importance of managing older players like Faletau.

"He is good, he was tired after the game and did not train on Tuesday," Jones said. "He is an older athlete and done what he has done in his career. He is entitled to have a little bit of break."

If Faletau is unable to play this weekend, Dragons number eight Aaron Wainwright is likely to step up from the replacements bench, with Taine Plumtree also coming into the squad. Despite missing training, Faletau has been involved in certain aspects of Wales' preparations for the second match.

Jones dismissed concerns about Faletau's absence from training affecting his selection. "With him, no. He has played more than 100 internationals and been a Test match player since 2011," Jones said. "If you don't look after those older players they will break so we are just looking after him, which is a key thing."

Faletau, who has played 109 internationals for Wales, remains a crucial figure in the team. Despite his efforts, Wales suffered their 18th consecutive international loss in Kitakyushu. Jones praised Faletau's consistency and leadership qualities.

"He is a brilliant player," Jones said. "I remember when he came through. He has not really changed much with his movement, the rugby IQ. He is not massively vocal but he has a brilliant 'follow me' characteristic, which the boys see in him and get behind."

In other squad news, Dragons lock Ben Carter has been officially released due to a concussion sustained just 24 seconds into the Kitakyushu match. Wales will not call up a replacement, reducing the squad to 32 players. Ospreys lock James Ratti and Gloucester's Freddie Thomas are expected to feature in the upcoming game.

Wales are determined to level the series in Kobe and end their losing streak. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for supremacy in this summer tour.