Wales have announced their squad for the upcoming Six Nations encounter against Scotland, making just two changes to the matchday 23 that faced Ireland on 22 February. Dewi Lake and Keiron Assiratti have been named on the bench, replacing Evan Lloyd and Henry Thomas.
In a notable selection milestone, Wales have retained an unchanged starting XV for the first time since the 2019 World Cup match against Australia. Throughout Wayne Pivac’s tenure and Warren Gatland’s second stint in charge, the team never fielded the same starting side in consecutive matches.
Following an impressive debut in the famous red jersey, Ellis Mee retains his place on the wing. He joins Tom Rogers and Blair Murray in an unchanged back three, while Max Llewellyn and Ben Thomas continue their partnership in midfield.
There is good news for Wales at fly-half, as Gareth Anscombe has been cleared to play after undergoing a Head Injury Assessment (HIA) in the previous match. He will once again partner Tomos Williams in the half-back positions.
Up front, Nicky Smith, Elliot Dee, and WillGriff John keep their places in the front row, having delivered a strong scrummaging performance in round three. The second row remains unchanged, with Dafydd Jenkins and Will Rowlands locking the scrum.
The back row sees no alterations either, with Tommy Reffell, Jac Morgan, and Taulupe Faletau completing the loose forward trio. Morgan will continue in the blindside flanker role.
Among the replacements, Lake is named as the backup hooker and will be joined by props Gareth Thomas and Henry Thomas on the bench.
Scrum coach Adam Jones praised Lake’s impact upon his return, saying: “He’s been excellent. He’s a former captain and has been a big player for Wales in the last few years.”
Sherratt is keen for his side to build on their last performance. “This week we’ve challenged ourselves to keep improving. We want to keep the same intent and bravery as we showed last time out, but making sure that we are building on our game,” explained the interim head coach.
“We’re excited for the challenge of playing Scotland in Edinburgh and can’t wait to get out there on Saturday.”
Wales Squad to Face Scotland
Starting XV:Blair Murray; Tom Rogers, Max Llewellyn, Ben Thomas, Ellis Mee; Gareth Anscombe, Tomos Williams; Nicky Smith, Elliot Dee, WillGriff John; Dafydd Jenkins, Will Rowlands; Jac Morgan, Tommy Reffell, Taulupe Faletau.
Replacements:Dewi Lake, Gareth Thomas, Keiron Assiratti, Teddy Williams, Aaron Wainwright, Rhodri Williams, Jarrod Evans, Joe Roberts.
