My Wales 23 for AIs (SQUAD ANNOUNCED)

First topic message reminder :

I'm picking my current Wales 23 based on form, though I accept it is maybe too soon because we still have the European rugby cup to be played.

15. Liam Williams
14. Hallam Amos
13. Cory Allen
12. Scott Williams
11. George North
10. Dan Biggar

9. Rhys Webb

8. Dan Baker
7. Sam Warburton
6. Taulupe Faletau
5. AWJ (c)
4. Ball
3. Lee
2. Hibbard
1. Jenkins

Reps: Baldwin, James, A.Jones, Charteris/Davies/Evans, Navidi/Tipuric, G.Davies, Patchell, J.Davies.

Not sure who is injured atm, so have included a few options. The rest of the squad though will be the usual. I also think Cuthbert will be picked on the other wing, but he is in some bad form right now, hence being left out of my squad.

Feel free to add and pick apart. We've a few weeks yet.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

Forwards:
Gethin Jenkins, Paul James, Nicky Smith, Aaron Jarvis, Rhodri Jones, Samson Lee, Scott Baldwin, Richard Hibbard, Emyr Phillips, Jake Ball, AWJ, Luke Charteris, Bradley Davies, James King, Dan Lydiate, Justin Tipuric, Sam Warburton (c), Dan Baker, Taulupe Faletau.

Backs:
Mike Phillips, Rhys Webb, Rhodri Williams, Dan Biggar, Rhys Priestland, Cory Allen, JD2, JAmie Roberts, Scott Williams, Hallam Amos, Alex Cuthbert, George North, Tom Prydie, Leigh Halfpenny, Liam Williams.

No Adam Jones, Rhys Patchell, James Hook. Nicky Thomas is the only new face.

The Saint wrote:Clermont seem to have rotated their internationals quite a bit this season, so JD probably hasn't played that much more than guys in our domestic league. I've only seen highlights, but JD has looked fairly average and hasn't been on the scoresheet yet. So no idea where you guys get the idea he's been amazing. Perhaps our French friend on here could clear it up.

Well there's conclusive evidence of nothing!

funnyExiledScot wrote:

The Saint wrote:Clermont seem to have rotated their internationals quite a bit this season, so JD probably hasn't played that much more than guys in our domestic league. I've only seen highlights, but JD has looked fairly average and hasn't been on the scoresheet yet. So no idea where you guys get the idea he's been amazing. Perhaps our French friend on here could clear it up.

Well there's conclusive evidence of nothing!

Apart from the fact he's not on the scoresheet, where-as Rougerie is touching down almost every week and sometimes more than once. It ain't rocket science like. If only Cotter was still there, JD2 would probably be best in the world right?

The Saint wrote:

funnyExiledScot wrote:

The Saint wrote:Clermont seem to have rotated their internationals quite a bit this season, so JD probably hasn't played that much more than guys in our domestic league. I've only seen highlights, but JD has looked fairly average and hasn't been on the scoresheet yet. So no idea where you guys get the idea he's been amazing. Perhaps our French friend on here could clear it up.

Well there's conclusive evidence of nothing!

Apart from the fact he's not on the scoresheet, where-as Rougerie is touching down almost every week and sometimes more than once. It ain't rocket science like. If only Cotter was still there, JD2 would probably be best in the world right?

The Saint wrote:

funnyExiledScot wrote:

The Saint wrote:Clermont seem to have rotated their internationals quite a bit this season, so JD probably hasn't played that much more than guys in our domestic league. I've only seen highlights, but JD has looked fairly average and hasn't been on the scoresheet yet. So no idea where you guys get the idea he's been amazing. Perhaps our French friend on here could clear it up.

Well there's conclusive evidence of nothing!

Apart from the fact he's not on the scoresheet, where-as Rougerie is touching down almost every week and sometimes more than once. It ain't rocket science like. If only Cotter was still there, JD2 would probably be best in the world right?

Gavin Evans used to score all the time when he played in the centre next to Regan king.

maestegmafia wrote:

The Saint wrote:

funnyExiledScot wrote:

The Saint wrote:Clermont seem to have rotated their internationals quite a bit this season, so JD probably hasn't played that much more than guys in our domestic league. I've only seen highlights, but JD has looked fairly average and hasn't been on the scoresheet yet. So no idea where you guys get the idea he's been amazing. Perhaps our French friend on here could clear it up.

Well there's conclusive evidence of nothing!

Apart from the fact he's not on the scoresheet, where-as Rougerie is touching down almost every week and sometimes more than once. It ain't rocket science like. If only Cotter was still there, JD2 would probably be best in the world right?

Gavin Evans used to score all the time when he played in the centre next to Regan king.

So Evans is amazing then? And if he was ever scoring all the time he would've had to have been the league's top try scorer; I don't ever remember him being that. I do remember one season where he scored a few tries and was a threat with ball in had, which is what led to his single and only cap (that and the former Scarlets coach being in charge of Wales).

Gavin Evans was probably the best centre in Wales around 06-07, when he was playing alongside Reggie. Then he picked up a knock, and Foxy stepped up. At one point I was hoping we would ditch Reggie and keep Gav and Foxy instead. However after his brush with the welsh squad, and his injury, he tended to get a bit of a 'go it alone' attitude, which seems to inflict a lot if the Scarlets lads once they get their first international call up (Foxy suffered from it, as has Scott). Since then he jumped to the Blurs, struggled for game time, and gets slagged down as bring poor, even though he is still a good Pro12 standard centre.

Hibbard is playing well for Gloucester. I think hookie has had about two passes all game. Gloucester are keeping it in the fwds..

maestegmafia wrote:Hibbard is playing well for Gloucester. I think hookie has had about two passes all game. Gloucester are keeping it in the fwds..

48-0 currently

I watched the game, and thought in the backs Laidlaw and Twelvetrees did a lot of the work. Not sure how Hook's been throughout the season (he hasn't hit the headlines) but on this game he shouldn't be one of Wales' back-up 10s this autumn. If we are after a utility player I would opt for Henson (as I said earlier in thread).

The Saint wrote:I watched the game, and thought in the backs Laidlaw and Twelvetrees did a lot of the work. Not sure how Hook's been throughout the season (he hasn't hit the headlines) but on this game he shouldn't be one of Wales' back-up 10s this autumn. If we are after a utility player I would opt for Henson (as I said earlier in thread).

Patch could do 10/12/15, Priest 10/15, Ow3n Williams 10/12/13/15?, Tovey 10/11/14/15 (centre now too), Annscombe even. Got a fair few utility fly halves

The Saint wrote:I watched the game, and thought in the backs Laidlaw and Twelvetrees did a lot of the work. Not sure how Hook's been throughout the season (he hasn't hit the headlines) but on this game he shouldn't be one of Wales' back-up 10s this autumn. If we are after a utility player I would opt for Henson (as I said earlier in thread).

Twelvetrees??? Really???

He dropped a lot of ball, ran up a lot of blind allies and through some awfull hospital passes. If it wasn't for that bloke Cook at 15 then Twelvetrees would have been the worst player in the Glaws team.

May looked good. Laidlaw played well, hook hardly got the ball but when he did he managed two assists and a nice try. Good support play in open play.

True. The way I see @ 10: Biggar, Patchell, Williams, Priestland, Tovey (injured too much), the rest. Looks to me that Patchell, Williams and Henson are the best fly-halves (and former fly-havles) at covering other positions. I wouldn't consider the others as utility, and can't comment on Anscombe just yet.

maestegmafia wrote:

The Saint wrote:I watched the game, and thought in the backs Laidlaw and Twelvetrees did a lot of the work. Not sure how Hook's been throughout the season (he hasn't hit the headlines) but on this game he shouldn't be one of Wales' back-up 10s this autumn. If we are after a utility player I would opt for Henson (as I said earlier in thread).

Twelvetrees??? Really???

He dropped a lot of ball, ran up a lot of blind allies and through some awfull hospital passes. If it wasn't for that bloke Cook at 15 then Twelvetrees would have been the worst player in the Glaws team.

May looked good. Laidlaw played well, hook hardly got the ball but when he did he managed two assists and a nice try. Good support play in open play.

At fly-half's number one job is to run the game and whether or not you like 12trees he does it more than Hook, like he did tonight.

Interesting that JD2 isn't even on the bench this weekend.

Yes. I read JD2 was omitted but not on the injury list, no club explanation...?

Jd2 didn't play in Clermonts last game against Lyon that took them to the top.
Game before that he played when Clermont performed poorly against Bordeaux so maybe paying the price for poor form.
Rougerie & Foffana aren't bad options in the centre

It's squad rotation Butin is not in the squad either. Not unusual for French teams to rest their best players on away trips in the HEC

maestegmafia wrote:It's squad rotation Butin is not in the squad either. Not unusual for French teams to rest their best players on away trips in the HEC

Welcome back MM. I see what you did there.
Buttin good player that he is, is not first choice & has largely played bit parts this season. Abendanon has started very well & is firmly first choice.
Clermont need their best team out against Sarries particularly in this tournament - no points & you will probably struggle to get through to knock outs.

A review of a few of the options by Gareth Griffiths for the Western Mail.


OSPREYS

Eli Walker - The tricky wing suffered heartbreak 12 months ago when he was 48 hours from making his Test debut against South Africa before injury robbed him of his dream. Has battled back to fitness from hamstring problems and although minor shoulder problem has ruled him out of two matches this season, he looks like he is back to his best.

Nicky Smith - The young loose-head prop has been a revelation after being handed the chance following injury to Ryan Bevington. Has an outside chance of ousting the likes of Rob Evans and Rhys Gill and be included in the Wales squad alongside Gethin Jenkins and Paul James.

James King - Has deputised expertly for concussion victim Justin Tipuric on the Ospreys openside and has also packed down on the blindside. Has been involved in Wales squads before and his versatility could work in his favour.

 
SCARLETS

Rhys Priestland - There are no guarantees for the World Cup 2011 outside-half to be definitely included in the squad as deputy for Dan Biggar with competition from James Hook and Rhys Patchell. Scarlets stand-off still needs an assured display against Toulon.

Rhodri Williams - Following the injury to Scarlets rival Gareth Davies, the scrum-half has a chance to cement his Wales squad spot alongside Mike Phillips and Rhys Webb. Biggest threat could come from Parc y Scarlets team-mate Aled Davies.

Rory Pitman - A real wildcard with Wales set to name Taulupe Faletau and Dan Baker as their specialist No.8s. But another barnstorming ball-carrying display from the burly back-rower against Europe’s top side could give Gatland a late nudge.

 
BLUES

Rhys Patchell - Has moved between outside-half and full-back this season for his region this season. A prodigious talent but might need one more telling display against Grenoble to feature in any Welsh plans this autumn.

Matthew Rees - The Blues captain made a welcome return to Test rugby in South Africa last summer. But despite the injury to Ken Owens, the Lions Test front-rower faces a battle to be included as one of three hookers after fine form showed by Richard Hibbard, Emyr Phillips and Scott Baldwin.

Cory Allen - Following his breakthrough season, Allen has struggled to impress so far this campaign in a misfiring Blues backline. Faces a battle to feature alongside established centres Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies and Scott Williams.

 
DRAGONS

Hallam Amos - The 19-year-old made his debut last November but was ruled out of the summer tour of South Africa through injury. Can cover wing and full-back and provides a useful left-foot kicking option.

Andrew Coombs - Has fallen down the second-row pecking order especially after being handed a three-week ban last month for stamping on Alun Wyn Jones. Best hope is South Africa game on November 29 which falls outside International Rugby Board window where Wales could lose some second-rows.

Nic Cudd - The openside has been a shining light in a dreadful Dragons outfit this season and was mentioned in dispatches by Gatland this week. Is the in-form Welsh No.7 but remains below the more physical Sam Warburton, Justin Tipuric and Josh Turnbull in the international pecking order.

 
OUTSIDE WALES

Rhys Gill (Saracens) - Has been in impressive form for the Aviva Premiership outfit this season and faces a tough test against Clermont this Saturday. Gatland has said wary of selecting Gill and fellow English exile Paul James in the same squad because both players are unavailable for final match against South Africa.

Owen Williams (Leicester) - After a stellar season last year, Williams has slipped off the radar following suspension at the end of last season and featuring in a struggling Tigers side during this campaign. Only a remarkable display against Ulster this Saturday will force him into contention.

Gavin Henson (Bath) - Might seem unlikely they will return to the former golden boy of Welsh rugby who last featured on the Test stage three years ago. But the 32-year-old has started the last two matches at full-back for Bath who are riding high in the Aviva Premiership.

BigTrevsbigmac wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:It's squad rotation Butin is not in the squad either. Not unusual for French teams to rest their best players on away trips in the HEC

Welcome back MM. I see what you did there.
Buttin good player that he is, is not first choice & has largely played bit parts this season. Abendanon has started very well & is firmly first choice.
Clermont need their best team out against Sarries particularly in this tournament - no points & you will probably struggle to get through to knock outs.

Again this echoes my sentiments on the matter. I saw Top14 highlights last week and JD2 got skinned. Neither him or Roberts would be in my Wales team for Australia.

maestegmafia wrote:A review of a few of the options by Gareth Griffiths for the Western Mail.


OSPREYS

Eli Walker - The tricky wing suffered heartbreak 12 months ago when he was 48 hours from making his Test debut against South Africa before injury robbed him of his dream. Has battled back to fitness from hamstring problems and although minor shoulder problem has ruled him out of two matches this season, he looks like he is back to his best.

Nicky Smith - The young loose-head prop has been a revelation after being handed the chance following injury to Ryan Bevington. Has an outside chance of ousting the likes of Rob Evans and Rhys Gill and be included in the Wales squad alongside Gethin Jenkins and Paul James.

James King - Has deputised expertly for concussion victim Justin Tipuric on the Ospreys openside and has also packed down on the blindside. Has been involved in Wales squads before and his versatility could work in his favour.

 
SCARLETS

Rhys Priestland - There are no guarantees for the World Cup 2011 outside-half to be definitely included in the squad as deputy for Dan Biggar with competition from James Hook and Rhys Patchell. Scarlets stand-off still needs an assured display against Toulon.

Rhodri Williams - Following the injury to Scarlets rival Gareth Davies, the scrum-half has a chance to cement his Wales squad spot alongside Mike Phillips and Rhys Webb. Biggest threat could come from Parc y Scarlets team-mate Aled Davies.

Rory Pitman - A real wildcard with Wales set to name Taulupe Faletau and Dan Baker as their specialist No.8s. But another barnstorming ball-carrying display from the burly back-rower against Europe’s top side could give Gatland a late nudge.

 
BLUES

Rhys Patchell - Has moved between outside-half and full-back this season for his region this season. A prodigious talent but might need one more telling display against Grenoble to feature in any Welsh plans this autumn.

Matthew Rees - The Blues captain made a welcome return to Test rugby in South Africa last summer. But despite the injury to Ken Owens, the Lions Test front-rower faces a battle to be included as one of three hookers after fine form showed by Richard Hibbard, Emyr Phillips and Scott Baldwin.

Cory Allen - Following his breakthrough season, Allen has struggled to impress so far this campaign in a misfiring Blues backline. Faces a battle to feature alongside established centres Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies and Scott Williams.

 
DRAGONS

Hallam Amos - The 19-year-old made his debut last November but was ruled out of the summer tour of South Africa through injury. Can cover wing and full-back and provides a useful left-foot kicking option.

Andrew Coombs - Has fallen down the second-row pecking order especially after being handed a three-week ban last month for stamping on Alun Wyn Jones. Best hope is South Africa game on November 29 which falls outside International Rugby Board window where Wales could lose some second-rows.

Nic Cudd - The openside has been a shining light in a dreadful Dragons outfit this season and was mentioned in dispatches by Gatland this week. Is the in-form Welsh No.7 but remains below the more physical Sam Warburton, Justin Tipuric and Josh Turnbull in the international pecking order.

 
OUTSIDE WALES

Rhys Gill (Saracens) - Has been in impressive form for the Aviva Premiership outfit this season and faces a tough test against Clermont this Saturday. Gatland has said wary of selecting Gill and fellow English exile Paul James in the same squad because both players are unavailable for final match against South Africa.

Owen Williams (Leicester) - After a stellar season last year, Williams has slipped off the radar following suspension at the end of last season and featuring in a struggling Tigers side during this campaign. Only a remarkable display against Ulster this Saturday will force him into contention.

Gavin Henson (Bath) - Might seem unlikely they will return to the former golden boy of Welsh rugby who last featured on the Test stage three years ago. But the 32-year-old has started the last two matches at full-back for Bath who are riding high in the Aviva Premiership.

King has never convinced me and I would take Cudd over him.

Walker or Amos would be a good alternative to the bulk or North or Cuthbert.

Pitman has impressed me when I have seen him and with some (not me) saying Faletau to play 6 its always good to have other options.

Coombs could come back into the reckoning especially for the Boks game as Evans, Charteris and Davies are all likely to be unavailable.

Think Gill deserves another shot and despite not starting today he's getting good game time now for Sarries due to mako being out injured.

Anyone any news on when he's naming the squad, after first 2 rounds of Europe I guess would seem a good date.

That would make sense, Ospreys would have played Saints and Scarlets played Toulon and Tigers by then.

Should have a good idea of where all players are at by then, the doubts for me will still be over the amount of game time some of the French based players are getting

Squad announcement is Tuesday 21st October so far as I remember . So just one round of Euro action...

Not a bad start with Dragons putting in a BP win against Stade Francais and Blues thrash Grenoble...

Of the overseas contingent I thought Jamie Roberts looked very good vs Saints so did Charteris who came on in the second half. Unfortunately Saints hardly gave George anymore than the odd kick and chase, the saints fly half Mylar is not the sharpest tool in their box.

Mike Phillips and James Hook were not massively impressive in either match.

Bath got pasted by Glasgow but haven't heard how James played? He didn't start but came on in the second half...

Also I saw Henson went off in the 44th minute, maybe an injury...?

Of the foreign based contingent I guess Jon Davies (rested by CA this weekend), Charteris, Halfpenny, Roberts and North are the players we are concerned about for first XV selection..

Maes,

James played well when he came on as did Gill for Sarries but Henson didn't do a lot from what I noticed.

At the moment I wouldn't pick Roberts or Halfpenny but I think we all know they will start if fit.

bedfordwelsh wrote:Maes,

James played well when he came on as did Gill for Sarries but Henson didn't do a lot from what I noticed.

At the moment I wouldn't pick Roberts or Halfpenny but I think we all know they will start if fit.

Halfpenny played well last week and Roberts looked good yesterday. He looked smart. I would likely put Scot Williams is ahead of him. But he played well.

Will see halfpenny this afternoon.

From the western mail.


There are just three weeks to go until Warren Gatland names his Wales squad to face Australia, Fiji, New Zealand and South Africa.

The New Zealander has often varied his squad sizes depending on injuries and the challenges that lie ahead.

The major decisions facing Gatland are whether to restore Sam Warburton to the captaincy ahead of Alun Wyn Jones, who to include at outside-half...and he'll also be desperately hoping goal-kicking ace Leigh Halfpenny is fit even though he is yet to play for new club Toulon.

So what's the likely make-up of his squad? Here, Gareth Griffiths picks a 32-man party for the four-match series which will be the final one of this before the World Cup next year. It is based on form, fitness and reputation as things presently stand.


Back three 
            
Leigh Halfpenny (Toulon): Lions man-of-the-series has been out of action since last March with a shoulder injury and debut for Toulon has also been delayed by a groin problem. The French club are hoping surgery is not required and Wales will be desperate Halfpenny returns in time. If not Rhys Patchell, Matthew Morgan and James Hook will find themselves in contention.

Liam Williams (Scarlets): The full-back/wing will be desperate to bounce back from his disastrous last taste of international action when his late shoulder charge gave away the penalty try which allowed South Africa to clinch victory in the second Test at Nelspruit.

Alex Cuthbert (Cardiff Blues): The Wales star has been starved of try-scoring chances in the opening month of the season and been used more as a battering regional ram at times. But always seems to excel with Wales and has constantly proved he is a natural finisher           .

Eli Walker (Ospreys): The Ospreys star was just 48 hours from making his Test debut against South Africa last autumn before injury agonisingly ruled him out. Other fitness issues ruined his season but has bounced back impressively this season.

Hallam Amos (Newport Gwent Dragons): Another rising star whose season was hampered by injury after making his Test debut aged 19 during the last campaign. But his two-try display against Treviso last weekend demonstrated he knows where the line is.

George North (Northampton): Not at his best in the summer after being forced to play despite suffering from illness. But remains Wales’ most potent attacking weapon and in try scoring form with the Saints so far this summer. Provides centre cover.           

Liam Williams makes his now infamous last-ditch tackle against South Africa in Nelspruit last June  


Centres      
       
Scott Williams (Scarlets): Has been given extra responsibility with the Scarlets this summer after being handed the captaincy following injury to Ken Owens. The challenger to the Jamie Roberts/Jonathan Davies axis and his stature is growing.

Jamie Roberts (Racing Metro): Suffered a dead leg last weekend but should be nothing serious. Remains an integral part of Gatland’s attacking game plan and is also Shaun Edwards’ defensive captain.

Jonathan Davies (Clermont): A quiet start to his new life in France after battling with leg injuries. But the former Scarlets star remains the Welsh attacking midfield lynchpin and forms a formidable centre partnership with Roberts.           

Scott Williams hasn't played for Wales since a tackle on Brian O'Driscoll against Ireland last February saw him dislocate his shoulder  


Half-backs    
         
Dan Biggar (Ospreys): The undoubted first-choice Wales No.10 now after an impressive start to the season and is enjoying a good partnership with scrum-half Rhys Webb.

Rhys Priestland (Scarlets): The major question is who will deputise for Biggar at No.10 and it becomes a choice between Priestland, Hook and Rhys Patchell. Hook and Patchell provide greater versatility but Priestland just gets the nod.

Mike Phillips (Racing Metro): The Lions star was impressive against South Africa in the second Test but now faces the greatest competition he has ever experienced for his starting spot from Rhys Webb and Gareth Davies.

Rhys Webb (Ospreys): The standout performer in the Guinness Pro 12 league after battling back from injury which forced him out of the summer tour. Started ahead of Phillips against England in the Six Nations and will be looking to recapture this position.

Gareth Davies (Scarlets): The leading try scorer in the league last year and had shown glimpses of that form this season. Gets the nod ahead of Scarlets team-mate Rhodri Williams.          NOW OUT OF CONTENTION WITH A KNEE INJURY 




Props      
       
Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues): Missed the opening three weeks of the season with a calf injury but returned against Leinster last weekend. Was immense against South Africa last summer and Gatland will be hoping for more of the same in November.

Paul James (Bath): The ever dependable James won’t let his country down if he is called upon and will be charged with ensuring Wales scrum remains strong during the autumn series. Rhys Gill will also be talked about while Rob Evans or Nicky Smith will be in contention for fourth international when James returns to Bath.

Adam Jones (Cardiff Blues): This series will prove pivotal in judging whether the grizzled Welsh veteran makes it through to the World Cup next year. Dropped during the South Africa series, Jones will be determined to prove a point.

Samson Lee (Scarlets): Jones was dropped for the rising Scarlets star who impressed in the second Test in Nelspruit. But Lee needs to improve disciplinary record after picking up five-week ban for headbutting.

Aaron Jarvis (Ospreys): The tight-head had seamlessly filled the void left by Adam Jones’ departure to the Cardiff Blues and came off the bench in the second Test against South Africa and could just get the nod ahead of Rhodri Jones.           

Gethin Jenkins has had all too familiar calf trouble already this season, but is now back for the Blues  


Hookers     
        
Richard Hibbard (Gloucester): The Lions Test front-rower missed the South Africa tour through injury but remains in place to return as first-choice especially following the neck injury which has ruled out Ken Owens out of the autumn series.

Scott Baldwin (Ospreys): Has ensured Hibbard’s departure has not been felt that strongly at the Liberty Stadium during the opening month of the season after helping the Ospreys to the top of the Guinness Pro12 table.

Emyr Phillips (Scarlets): Has filled the void left by the injury to Owens and will be hoping to add to the three caps he has won over the last couple of seasons.     


              
Second rows    
         
Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys): The Ospreys skipper is probably the first name on Gatland’s team sheet now and the Wales coach will have to decide whether to give him the national captaincy on a permanent basis.

Luke Charteris (Racing Metro): Currently out injured with a broken foot but is expected back in action for his new French club before the end of October. A couple of games should ensure his place in the squad.

Jake Ball (Scarlets): The no-nonsense second-row shone on his first season in the Test arena during the last campaign and has emerged as an alternative to Bradley Davies who is still recovering from a hamstring problem.

Ian Evans (Bristol): Might now be playing at the second tier of English rugby but Evans has rarely let Wales down in the past and will provide suitable cover. Andrew Coombs will come into contention for fourth international against South Africa.           

Alun Wyn Jones loves a dust-up with the southern hemisphere            


Back rows      
       
Dan Lydiate (Racing Metro): Starved of rugby in France and his starting spot at six will come under intense pressure. But the chop tackling expert remains one of Shaun Edwards’ favourite players.

Josh Turnbull (Cardiff Blues): Impressed in South Africa after being pressed into emergency duty at openside flanker following injuries to Sam Warburton and Justin Tipuric. Turnbull will have his eyes on Wales No.6 jersey in this campaign and just edges out Aaron Shingler.

Sam Warbuton (Cardiff Blues): Returned from shoulder surgery and will take his place in Welsh back-row, whether it be at six or seven. Gatland has a decision to make whether to restore Warburton to the captaincy or give Alun Wyn Jones the honour.

Justin Tipuric (Ospreys): Tipuric also missed the summer tour through injury but has shown glimpses of his attacking brilliance on his return this season. Will be a clamour for Tipuric and Warburton to start in same back-row this November.

Taulupe Faletau (Newport Gwent Dragons): The Lions Test back-rower remains the model of consistency but has a rival for the No.8 berth for the first time since he emerged on the Test scene more than three years ago.

Dan Baker (Ospreys): That rival is the barnstorming ball-carrying Ospreys dynamo who has burst onto the scene in the last 12 months. Not been tested properly yet at highest level but an exciting prospect for future.

I don't think that's to far off the mark but personally:

I think Hook will still be in the squad though I wouldn't pick him

I would have Cory Allen in the squad and Patchell ahead of Priestland

Would also have Coombs in there at the expense of Evans

And would have a look at Cudd and Nicky Smith

Maes, at 5.53 this morning you said the team would be announced on Tuesday 21st October, a couple of posts later at around 12 midday you state the squad will be announced in 3 weeks time, whatever you drank between those 2 times I WANT.

Gatland, like most coaches will pick some players on past reputation knowing they have served him well in the past and hope they can do so again.

If this happens in certain positions then I will trust his judgement but for Webb, Biggar and Li Williams have to start as they have been our 3 main form players in the backs so far this season.

I thought halfpenny played well this afternoon though so did Liam Williams, tough call but the goal kicking might have swung it in half penny's favour.

I reckon my team would be

Rob Evans
Hibbard
Adam jones
Awj
Charteris
Warburton
Tipuric
Faletau
Webb
Biggar
Walker
Scott Williams
Jonathan Davies
George north
Leigh Halfpenny

How is JD2 in your team having not played much, and not played particularly well when he has?

The Saint wrote:How is JD2 in your team having not played much, and not played particularly well when he has?

He played very well when I watched him play in the T14. You can watch Top 14 matches on sky sports

maestegmafia wrote:I thought halfpenny played well this afternoon though so did Liam Williams, tough call but the goal kicking might have swung it in half penny's favour.

I reckon my team would be

Rob Evans
Hibbard
Adam jones
Awj
Charteris
Warburton
Tipuric
Faletau
Webb
Biggar
Walker
Scott Williams
Jonathan Davies
George north
Leigh Halfpenny

I would have:

James or Smith in over Evans - But we know Jenkins will get the nod
Lee in over A Jones
Amos or Halfpenny in over Walker
Li Williams in over Halfpenny

bedfordwelsh wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:I thought halfpenny played well this afternoon though so did Liam Williams, tough call but the goal kicking might have swung it in half penny's favour.

I reckon my team would be

Rob Evans
Hibbard
Adam jones
Awj
Charteris
Warburton
Tipuric
Faletau
Webb
Biggar
Walker
Scott Williams
Jonathan Davies
George north
Leigh Halfpenny

I would have:

James or Smith in over Evans - But we know Jenkins will get the nod
Lee in over A Jones
Amos or Halfpenny in over Walker
Li Williams in over Halfpenny

Smith is a good option but I don't think Lee is there yet. He does less away from the scrum than Adam.. Watching the ospreys then the Scarlets, yesterday, I saw a great performance in the scrum and around the park by Arhip. One that made lee look poor by comparison.

bedfordwelsh wrote:

Higher_Ground wrote:Strange that people don't rate King. I have to assume that it's because they haven't seen too much of him, because he has been outstanding for the unbeaten Ospreys this year. He also covers 4,5,6,7 - as in, he's had a lot of game time in those positions, is a good carrier, and an excellent lineout option.
All factors which put him way and ahead of Lydiate at this point. Given that we have no 2nd rows.

Why don't we have 2nd rows:

AWJ
Ball
Charteris
Evans
Davies

What I really meant was that I don't see Charteris as a nailed-on option to play when fit, having not reproduced his world cup form since then. He also hasn't played a competitive match this season yet I don't think?

Bradley Davies will have played a maximum of 3/4 games? in God knows how long, and is very injury/suspension prone, so he's no certainty either.

Ian Evans is playing 2nd tier rugby, and whilst Mosley might be as good as New Zealand, on the off chance that they're not, how is he going to step up to international rugby? The phrase 'he's never let Wales down before' doesn't really mean anything, there are countless players you could say that about, none of whom would be ready to play in the AI.

As has been mentioned, the last three probably won't be available for all games, which leaves us with AWJ and Jake Ball (my choice to start), meaning King's versatility is valuable.

Ideally it would be nice to see Bradley Davies kick start his career now, he's a great option when on form.

maestegmafia wrote:

The Saint wrote:How is JD2 in your team having not played much, and not played particularly well when he has?

He played very well when I watched him play in the T14. You can watch Top 14 matches on sky sports

Obvs you can watch T14 matches on sky sports. I think you're in a minority if you think he's played well. I think he's been average. The French poster on here seems to think the same, as do a few more others. These sentiments seem to be reflected by Clemont's coaches, who didn't have him in the squad for what their toughest European game of the season.

Forwards:
Gethin Jenkins, Paul James, Nicky Smith, Aaron Jarvis, Rhodri Jones, Samson Lee, Scott Baldwin, Richard Hibbard, Emyr Phillips, Jake Ball, AWJ, Luke Charteris, Bradley Davies, James King, Dan Lydiate, Justin Tipuric, Sam Warburton (c), Dan Baker, Taulupe Faletau.

Backs:
Mike Phillips, Rhys Webb, Rhodri Williams, Dan Biggar, Rhys Priestland, Cory Allen, JD2, JAmie Roberts, Scott Williams, Hallam Amos, Alex Cuthbert, George North, Tom Prydie, Leigh Halfpenny, Liam Williams.

Fairly predictable with the exception of Adam Jones being dropped.

Nice to see Nicky Smith getting his chance as does James King

I would have liked to have seen Patchell. Jones, Hook, etc not in but that's a fair representation of their form. I don't agree with a couple others but can't argue too much, it's a good squad. Now he just needs to select my 23...

I would have put Patchell in over Preistland, what odds can we get for him picking Phillips and Preistland before Biggar and Webb.

So ignoring injuries the squad for SA game is

Forwards:
Gethin Jenkins, Nicky Smith, Aaron Jarvis, Rhodri Jones, Samson Lee, Scott Baldwin, Emyr Phillips, Jake Ball, AWJ, James King, Justin Tipuric, Sam Warburton (c), Dan Baker, Taulupe Faletau.

Backs:
Rhys Webb, Rhodri Williams, Dan Biggar, Rhys Priestland, Cory Allen, Scott Williams, Hallam Amos, Alex Cuthbert, George North, Tom Prydie, Liam Williams.

Looks like-:

Li Williams
North
Allen
Williams
Cuthbert
Biggar
Webb

Jenkins
Baldwin
Lee
AWJ
Ball
Warburton
Tipuric
Faletau

(Bench-: Phillips, Jarvis, Jones, King, Baker; Rh Williams, Priestland, Prydie/Amos)

We are in for a good old fashion pummeling

Are we? The bench looks weaker than usual but...

1st choice lock pairing for most.
1st choice halfbacks
2/3 1st choice back 3.
Close to 1st choice backrow

The front row is the only real point of concern.

I thought they would of picked Williams from Tigers to be honest

Mike, the bench is going to be shockingly poor, that is where SA destroyed us last AIs.

No real surprises A Jones and Patchell aside.

I am glad to see the performances of Smith, B Davies, Amos and King (though not convinced yet) rewarded, I thought Cudd warranted a look at.

Priestland must really have some dirt on one of the boys, I would have taken Patchell over him.

My side from that squad for the first game would be:

James
Hibbard
Lee
AWJ
Charteris
Warburton (never thought I would not pick Dan)
Faletau
Tipuric

Webb
Biggar

North (though his defence just as bad as Cuthberts)
JD
Sc Williams
Amos

Li Williams

I have already said that we shouldn't play any of the exiles against the ABs as we wont have them for the Boks (North aside) so this would then be my side for the ABs and Boks:

Jenkins (need some experience in an in-experienced front row)
E Phillips
Lee
AWJ
Ball
Warburton
Faletau
Tipuric

Webb
Biggar

North
Allen
Sc Williams
Amos

Li Williams

I know neither of them sides will take field but well there you go.

There is no debate, we are all dreaming if we don't think the side will be

Halfpenny
Cuthbert
JD
Roberts
North
Biggar
Webb/Phillips
Faletau
Warburton
Lydiate
Charteris
AWJ
Lee
Hibbard
Jenkins

Higher_Ground wrote:There is no debate, we are all dreaming if we don't think the side will be

Halfpenny
Cuthbert
JD
Roberts
North
Biggar
Webb/Phillips
Faletau
Warburton
Lydiate
Charteris
AWJ
Lee
Hibbard
Jenkins

I think Gatland will pick Preistland ahead of Biggar.

HG,

You missed Priestland out

If he did go with that side then I still think the Likes of halfpenny, Lydiate and Roberts could up their game but Jenkins no and if Webb isn't picked then I will lose all faith in Gatland despite having defended him in the past.

That said what ever team takes the field they will as ever have my full support