Warren Gatland is making some significant changes to the Wales team as they prepare to face Italy in a crucial Six Nations match this weekend. The Wales Online reports that Scarlets center Eddie James is set to earn his first start for Wales, while Taulupe Faletau is also expected to return to the starting lineup after missing the previous match against France due to a knee issue. James, who has made three appearances off the bench for Wales since his debut last summer, will step in for the injured Owen Watkin in a must-win game for Wales. Faletau, on the other hand, is set to reprise his role as the No. 8 after sitting out the last match. The Welsh team, under the leadership of Warren Gatland, has been training in Nice and will head to Rome for the upcoming match at the Stadio Olimpico.
The pressure is on for Wales, as another defeat could potentially jeopardize Gatland’s position as the head coach after a string of 13 consecutive losses. Despite the significant stakes, Gatland is not planning to make wholesale changes to the team. James and Faletau are expected to be the only changes to the starting XV, with Aaron Wainwright likely to be on the bench after sustaining a facial injury in the previous match. Gatland’s decision to stick with most of the squad reflects his belief in their ability to bounce back from a disappointing loss against France. The match against Italy is crucial for Wales, with former Wales fly-half Dan Biggar describing it as one of the team’s most important games in two decades.
Italian rugby has been on the rise in recent years, presenting a tough challenge for Wales. Wales’ forwards coach Jonathan Humphreys acknowledged the pressure on the team and emphasized the importance of focusing on the controllable factors amidst the high stakes. The Welsh team will need to be at their best to overcome Italy’s strong defensive capabilities and competitiveness in the Six Nations tournament. The expected Wales lineup includes players such as Liam Williams, Josh Adams, and captain Jac Morgan, alongside newcomers like Eddie James. The return of Faletau adds depth and experience to the squad as they aim to secure a much-needed victory.
As Wales gears up for the critical match against Italy, the team’s preparations in Nice have been intense and focused on rectifying the mistakes from the previous games. With Gatland at the helm, the players are determined to deliver a performance that will not only secure a win but also potentially save Gatland’s job. The emphasis on continuity in the team selection underscores the belief in the players’ ability to rise to the occasion and deliver a much-needed victory. The clash with Italy is not just a test of skill but also a test of character for the Welsh team as they seek to turn their fortunes around in the Six Nations competition.