JAMES GATS HIS CHANCE

JAMES DAVIES told Warren Gatland it was about time he had a World Cup chance.

The flanker was praised by the Wales coach for having belief in his ability and he has an opportunity to prove his worth against Fiji tomorrow.

Davies will make his tournament bow alongside older brother, centre Jonathan, in Oita, replacing the rested Justin Tipuric.

Gatland said: “I said, ‘Well done’ to James and he replied, ‘You’ve finally seen the light have you?’

“He said, ‘I’m only joking’ but I loved that.

“It shows me players believe in their own ability. They want to be in the squad and they think they’re good enough to be in the starting side.”

Davies jnr (right)

said: “I said that a bit tonguein-cheek. All the back row have been outstanding in my view and I was a little bit shocked to get the call.

“Like Warren said, I believe in myself and now I’ve got the chance to show that.”

James is one of two changes to the Wales side.

The other sees Ross Moriarty come in for rookie Aaron Wainwright. Moriarty starts at No.8 with Josh Navidi switching from the base of the scrum to blindside. Wales’ backline is unchanged.

“We’re trying to think about the bigger picture and later in the tournament,” added Gatland.

“We’ve been really happy with Justin’s form, but it’s an opportunity to look at someone else.”