Taulupe Faletau returns to the Wales squad for their crucial Six Nations match against Italy. Coach Warren Gatland makes two changes as Wales aim to end their 13-match losing streak.
Veteran forward Taulupe Faletau will play his first game for Wales since the 2023 Rugby World Cup. He has been named in the starting lineup for Wales’ important Six Nations match against Italy in Rome on Saturday.
This is good news for Wales coach Warren Gatland, whose team lost badly to France in their first game of the tournament. Wales have lost 13 games in a row. If they lose again, Gatland’s job could be at risk, and Wales could drop to 12th in the world rankings below Georgia.
Faletau, who has played 104 games for Wales and four for the British & Irish Lions, last played in Wales’ win over Georgia at the 2023 World Cup. He broke his arm in that game and then fractured his shoulder while playing for Cardiff six months later.
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The 34-year-old replaces Aaron Wainwright, who suffered a deep cut in the 43-0 loss to France. Wainwright has recovered and is on the bench, replacing flanker Tommy Reffell.
Scarlets center Eddie James will make his first start, replacing Owen Watkin, who suffered a knee injury against France and may miss the rest of the season. James, who has three caps as a substitute, will play alongside Nick Tompkins in midfield.
“This has been an important week with a lot of hard work,” said Gatland. “We want to be accurate and disciplined on Saturday. Italy is a strong team, and we are ready for the challenge.”
Wales Team vs. Italy
Starting XV:
15. Liam Williams
14. Tom Rogers
13. Nick Tompkins
12. Eddie James
11. Josh Adams
10. Ben Thomas
9. Tomos Williams
8. Taulupe Faletau
7. Jac Morgan (captain)
6. James Botham
5. Dafydd Jenkins
4. Will Rowlands
3. Henry Thomas
2. Evan Lloyd
- Gareth Thomas
Replacements:
16. Elliot Dee
17. Nicky Smith
18. Keiron Assiratti
19. Freddie Thomas
20. Aaron Wainwright
21. Rhodri Williams
22. Dan Edwards
23. Blair Murray