Posted by Wales head coach Wayne Pivac has made just one change to his starting XV to take on Ireland in the second round of the Guinness Six Nations this weekend, kick-off 2.15pm at the Aviva Stadium.
It is not a shock change as Saracens man Nick Tompkins makes his first start as a full international, wearing the number 13 jersey alongside Hadleigh Parkes in midfield after his try scoring debut against Italy last weekend.
To make room for him, George North returns to his usual home on the wing while Johnny McNicholl drops to the bench where he will cover wing and full-back.
There are other changes among the replacements as Rhys Carre returns from suspension to back up Wyn Jones at loosehead, Adam Beard is the lock cover after Cory Hill picks up a knock, Gareth Davies is the scrum-half option as he is back fit and Owen Williams’ versatility is preferred to Jarrod Evans.
WillGriff John has picked up a shoulder injury that prevented him from being involved with selection and Liam Williams has been ruled out until round four at the earliest with a persistent ankle problem.
Wales: Leigh Halfpenny, George North, Nick Tompkins, Hadleigh Parkes, Josh Adams, Dan Biggar, Tomos Williams; Wyn Jones, Ken Owens, Dillon Lewis, Jake Ball, Alun Wyn Jones (c), Aaron Wainwright, Justin Tipuric, Taulupe Faletau
Replacements: Ryan Elias, Rhys Carre, Leon Brown, Adam Beard, Ross Moriarty, Gareth Davies, Owen Williams, Johnny McNicholl
Cardiff Rugby Life 