Gatland as he for Six Nations
Wales are on a nine-game unbeaten run and Gatland will not easily jettison the man who piloted the team for the tougher games during the autumn.
ARE THERE PLAYERS FROM NOVEMBER FIGHTING TO KEEP THEIR PLACES?
Aside from those carrying bumps, Tyler Morgan might be vulnerable, with Scott Williams set to return after injury.
Other hookers mentioned above are pressing Ryan Elias hard, while Hallam Amos could push either Luke Morgan or Steff Evans for a spot in the back three.
Maybe Owen Watkin is looking over his shoulder, too, with Cory Allen playing well.
That said, Watkin surely has credit in the bank with the selectors.
WHICH INJURED PLAYER WILL GATLAND MISS MOST?
Probably Ellis Jenkins.
The Cardiff Blue had a blinder against South Africa in the autumn, only to sustain a season-ending injury in the final seconds.
His ability over the ball, willingness to take responsibility and skill with ball in hand shone through in the game with the Springboks.
He is also versatile enough to play across the back row.
Yes, Josh Navidi is fit again. But Jenkins put down a marker in the autumn.
Leigh Halfpenny? Wales have flashy runners from deep but it is unclear if they have anyone to match Halfpenny’s ability to read play and the calm assurance he offers, not to mention his outstanding goal-kicking.
WILL LEIGH HALFPENNY BE NAMED?
It really depends on the medical reports. He is facing three to five weeks out and the assumption would be he might need a game with the Scarlets to get back up to speed.
Maybe Gatland will opt to leave him out with the option of summoning him at a future date.
The medics hold the key.
IS JOSH NAVIDI READY TO RETURN?
He had a quiet game against the Ospreys last time out but before then he was outstanding against the Scarlets, achieving four turnovers and making 21 tackles.
Gatland likes him as a player. He likes his selflessness, humility and willingness to go about his business with the minimum of fuss.
All things considered, last term’s Welsh Player of the Year looks ready to return, although whether he gets in the starting XV ahead of Justin Tipuric is another matter entirely.
WHO ARE WALES’ SIX MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS - IN ORDER?
That would be Alun Wyn Jones, Taulupe Faletau, Justin Tipuric, Gareth Anscombe, Ken Owens and Jonathan Davies – yes, in that order.
HOW WILL WALES FARE?
The key game is the opener against France. Win that Friday night game under lights in Paris and everything opens up.
Momentum is key and a success over Italy in round two would keep Wales on track when they face England in Cardiff.
Welsh depth is being tested by injuries, but the omens on that front were favourable last autumn.
New players, such as Aaron Wainwright, have come through and made an impression. Samson Lee is fit again, along with Josh Navidi.
Ireland on the final weekend will be a huge challenge, but in Cardiff Wales are a match for most.
That one could be a title, even Grand Slam, decider.
The match in France will set the tone. But Wales have cause for quiet confidence.