It’s decision time... but don’t expect any big Wales surprises
THE next step on the road to Japan will be taken this lunchtime (12 noon) when Wales head coach Warren Gatland unveils his squad for the forthcoming fourmatch autumn series.
As in previous years, the New Zealander is expected to select a 36-man party that will meet up next Monday to prepare for matches against Scotland, Australia, Tonga and South Africa.
With a number of players impressing on the unbeaten summer tour of the Americas, don’t anticipate a squad packed with surprises, although Cardiff Blues wing Owen Lane, if he can shake off the injury he picked up in Lyon on Sunday, is heavily favoured to get his first international call.
That could see Steff Evans miss out after such limited game-time for the Scarlets.
Gatland was in Llanelli on Saturday to cast his eye over the Champions Cup clash with Racing 92, but in testing conditions, the winger didn’t have much opportunity to shine.
With Scott Williams not expected to return from a hamstring injury until late November, it would be a surprise if the Ospreys centre was included, which leaves a midfield berth up for grabs.
Candidates aren’t exactly queuing up and Gatland may fancy giving George North another run out there, like he did briefly against the Springboks in June.
Otherwise, Tyler Morgan looks the most likely option with Owen Williams out of favour at Gloucester.
The half-backs pick themselves, while in the pack, front row selection also appears straightforward.
With the World Cup shake-up in mind, Gatland will also be considering the likes of Aaron Jarvis and Rhodri Jones - props who can play either side of the scrum – while Dillon Lewis’s display against the Pumas should see him preferred to Dragons youngster Leon Brown.
Seb Davies’s knee ligament injury opens up a space in the second row pool. The question is, does Gatland go for an out-and-out lock like Bradley Davies, or a versatile player who can also slot into the back-row, someone like Josh Turnbull or James King?
Thomas Young’s outstanding backs-to-the-wall display during Wasps’ hammering by Leinster in Dublin should see him earn a welcome recall, particularly as he offers cover across the back row, while Taulupe Faletau’s broken arm and the long-term absence of Aaron Shingler and James Davies presents an opportunity for Dragons favourite Ollie Griffiths to stake his claim.
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