Gareth Thomas (L) will captain an experienced Wales team against Australia. Photo / Reuters
CARDIFF - Wales have named an experienced side for their Pool B rugby World Cup match against Australia at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday, with coach Gareth Jenkins making three changes to the team that beat Canada.
Recalled Gareth Thomas will captain the side, while experienced
duo Stephen Jones and Colin Charvis also return to the starting line-up.
Charvis, who scored a try against Canada after coming on as a replacement in the 42-17 win, will fill the blindside flanker role with Jonathan Thomas switching positions to No 8.
Kevin Morgan, James Hook and Alix Popham drop to the replacements bench.
Coach Jenkins, who breathed a big sigh of relief following last weekend's comeback, knows the importance of the match for their World Cup hopes.
"It's the most important match we have played during my tenure and probably the most important game a Welsh side has played for a long time," Jenkins said.
"We have a considered and professional approach and we have selected a team to win this test match.
"We must be focused, hard and determined to do it. This squad has those qualities, together with the self-belief, talent and ability to achieve a significant victory on home soil."
Wallabies fullback Chris Latham, who scored a try in the 29-29 draw between the sides in Cardiff last November, is delighted to be back in Wales.
"The atmosphere at the Millennium Stadium is awesome. There aren't many grounds in the world where the fans are so passionate and vocal," said Latham.
"The Welsh fans love their rugby, but they also support the opposing team if they play good rugby.
"That's what we want to do - go out there, play some attractive rugby and get them behind us. We want to hear the Welsh crowd getting behind us and we have every intention of getting them on our side. If we can get the crowd in our favour then that will be half of the battle."
- Reuters
