Warren Gatland has named his starting lineup for Wales’ eagerly awaited Six Nations opener against France, as the Welsh coach aims to end a frustrating run of 12 consecutive defeats.
In a bold move, Gatland has made several changes to his squad, including the inclusion of two players set to make their first appearances in the starting XV. Ospreys front-rowers Evan Lloyd and Henry Thomas will earn their first starts for Wales, with the experienced Gareth Thomas of Ospreys joining them in the front row. Cardiff Rugby’s Ben Thomas has been handed the responsibility of fly-half, partnering Gloucester’s in-form Tomos Williams at half-back.
Gatland has opted for a blend of experience and youth in the midfield, naming Nick Tompkins and Owen Watkin as the centre pairing. The back three sees the return of Liam Williams at full-back, with the ever-dangerous Josh Adams and Tom Rogers on the wings. In the second row, Will Rowlands and Dafydd Jenkins will form a solid partnership, while the back row is bolstered by James Botham, Jac Morgan—who will captain the side—and Aaron Wainwright.
Notably, talismanic number eight Taulupe Faletau has not been included in the squad, leaving a gap in the back row for Wainwright and company to fill.
One eye-catching development is the inclusion of uncapped Ospreys prospect Dan Edwards, who could make his international debut from the bench. Scarlets winger Blair Murray is also named among the substitutes, providing additional back-three cover.

The French, under the stewardship of coach Fabien Galthié, have named a formidable side, with half-backs Romain Ntamack and Antoine Dupont expected to orchestrate play alongside a forward pack packed with physicality and experience.
As Wales seek to overcome their recent struggles and begin their Six Nations campaign on a positive note, all eyes will be on Gatland’s men as they face off against a France team brimming with confidence and talent.
Wales Starting XV: Liam Williams (full-back); Tom Rogers, Owen Watkin, Nick Tompkins, Josh Adams (wings); Ben Thomas (fly-half), Tomos Williams (scrum-half); Gareth Thomas, Evan Lloyd, Henry Thomas (front row); Will Rowlands, Dafydd Jenkins (second row); James Botham, Jac Morgan (captain), Aaron Wainwright (back row).
Replacements: Elliot Dee, Nicky Smith, Keiron Assiratti, Freddie Thomas, Tommy Reffell, Rhodri Williams, Dan Edwards, Blair Murray.
France Starting XV: Ramos (full-back); Attissogbe, Barassi, Moefana, Bielle Biarrey (wings); Ntamack (fly-half), Dupont (scrum-half); Gros, Mauvaka, Atonio, Roumat, Meafou, Cros, Boudehent, Alldritt (forwards).
Replacements: Marchand, Baille, Colombe, Guillard, Auradou, Jegou, Le Garrec, Gailleton.