Warren Gatland Names Wales Side To Take On Ireland In Six Nations Opener

Warren Gatland has named a surprise selection to take on Ireland this weekend.

Speaking at the press conference Gatland Said:

We are excited by the make-up of the squad, it’s very experienced along with one eye looking to the future.

Rob (Evans) gets a start at loose-head, he’s played well for us before and deserves a chance looking ahead to the next few years.

We have been impressed with Tom James’ form for Cardiff Blues and we are excited by the mix of the back-row which has played well together before.

It’s great to see Jonathan (Davies) back and alongside Jamie, which makes a pretty experienced midfield.

Gareth (Anscombe) at full-back also gives us the option of having two first receivers.

We have a very experienced bench, with a lot of caps there and hopefully they will come on and make an impact.

It’s going to be a physical game.

Two years ago they strangled us out of the match and played well and we have to rise to that challenge on Sunday.

Here’s the team in full.

Wales team to face Ireland: Gareth Anscombe; George North, Jonathan Davies, Jamie Roberts, Tom James; Dan Biggar, Gareth Davies; Rob Evans, Scott Baldwin, Samson Lee, Luke Charteris, Alun Wyn Jones, Sam Warburton (capt), Justin Tipuric, Taulupe Faletau.

Replacements: Ken Owens, Gethin Jenkins, Tomas Francis, Bradley Davies, Dan Lydiate, Lloyd Williams, Rhys Priestland, Alex Cuthbert.