Rugby-Trio return for Wales as Thomas picked at flyhalf for France test

Wales have received a lift with the return of wing Josh Adams, fullback Liam Williams, and lock Dafydd Jenkins for their Six Nations opener against France in Paris on Friday, while Ben Thomas will captain the backline from the flyhalf spot. Veteran Adams and Williams were sidelined for a large part of last season due to injury as Wales aim to break a poor team record of 12 consecutive defeats dating back to the 2023 Rugby World Cup, raising concerns over coach Warren Gatland’s future.

Wing Tom Rogers completes the back three, while Owen Watkin and Nick Tompkins form the center pairing.

Scrumhalf Tomos Williams will join Thomas, who was selected because of Sam Costelow’s injury and the aim to explore alternatives to Gareth Anscombe.

The team will be led by Jac Morgan, with James Botham and number eight Aaron Wainwright positioned at the scrum’s rear. The lock combination features Will Rowlands and Jenkins, while hooker Evan Lloyd is supported by props Gareth Thomas and Henry Thomas in the front line.

“We’re excited for the challenge on Friday. The Six Nations is the best rugby competition in the world,” Gatland said. “Every game is a big occasion. We want to go out there, embrace that and start our championship well.”

Team: 15-Liam Williams, 14-Tom Rogers, 13-Nick Tompkins, 12-Owen Watkin, 11-Josh Adams, 10-Ben Thomas, 9-Tomos Williams, 8-Aaron Wainwright, 7-Jac Morgan , 6-James Botham, 5-Dafydd Jenkins, 4-Will Rowlands, 3-Henry Thomas, 2-Evan Lloyd, 1-Gareth Thomas

Bottom of Form

Replacements: 16-Elliot Dee, 17-Nicky Smith, 18-Keiron Assiratti, 19-Freddie Thomas, 20-Tommy Reffell, 21-Rhodri Williams, 22-Dan Edwards, 23-Blair Murray.