The Rugby Paper

Shane Williams’ Wales side to face Scotland

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15. Liam Williams: It’s a tough call on Leigh Halfpenny, but full-back is Liam’s best position. Leigh makes my bench which might force out the unlucky Rhys Patchell. 14. George North: It’s a huge boost for George to be back fit. He hasn’t had much rugby, but we all know he’s world class. 13. Scott Williams: Scott has shown me he’s getting back to his best with the Scarlets recently. He’s the natural man to fill the void left by the injured Jonathan Davies. 12. Owen Williams: I was impressed by Owen in the autumn and he has to be given a run of games in the Six Nations too. A harsh call on Hadleigh Parkes, admittedly. 11. Steffan Evans: Everyone knows how big a fan I am of Steff. He’s a raw talent who will only get better the more he plays internatio­nal rugby. 10. Dan Biggar: Kicks the goals with Leigh among the replacemen­ts. Hopefully we’ll see him continue his fine form with the Ospreys. 9. Rhys Webb: The best nine in Wales, it’s as simple as that. I’m sure he’ll be determined to end his last campaign in the red shirt with a bang. 1. Rob Evans: I did wonder how Wales would replace Gethin Jenkins, but Rob is doing a fantastic job. A straightfo­rward selection. 2. Ken Owens: As captain of a team playing some superb rugby, he must be full of confidence. Easily the first-choice hooker in this squad. 3. Samson Lee: It’s an all-Scarlets front row for me. Samson needs to be managed after his Achilles injury, but it’s great to see him back fit. 4. Bradley Davies: Tough call here with Jake Ball injured. Bradley has been excellent for the Ospreys and just edges Cory Hill. 5. Alun Wyn Jones (capt): An iconic leader, would anyone question Alun’s presence in the team? I don’t think so. 6. Aaron Shingler: The back row is the most interestin­g area of the team for me. Aaron had a fantastic autumn and has continued that with the Scarlets. 7. Justin Tipuric: This is harsh on Josh Navidi, but Justin can thrive in Wales’ new style of play as the link between forwards and backs. Josh is on the bench. 8. Ross Moriarty: I imagine he’ll play about an hour against Scotland after his injury problems, but that doesn’t mean he won’t have a big impact in that time.

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