Wales v South Africa squad announcement: Former Risca RFC star Rio Dyer starts

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Wales head coach Warren Gatland has called on former Risca RFC man Rio Dyer to help turn things around in their final Autumn Nations match against South Africa.

Gatland and his players have come under fire after recent performances, including last weekend’s 52-20 thumping at home to Australia.

Wales are yet to win a match in 2024, and could finish the year winless if they fail to beat reigning world champions South Africa at the Principality Stadium on Saturday November 23.

The Wales boss has made five changes ahead of the clash, including the addition of Dragons star Rio Dyer, who has been named on the wing.

Speaking before the match, Gatland said: “Last week’s result hurts and we are just as disappointed by it as the fans. Our focus now is on training and preparing well for our final game of this Autumn Nations series.

“We know what a quality side South Africa are and the physicality they bring. This week we need to show real courage and front up against the world champions.”

Wales team to face South Africa 

15. Blair Murray (Scarlets)
14. Tom Rogers (Scarlets)
13. Max Llewellyn (Gloucester Rugby)
12. Ben Thomas (Cardiff Rugby)
11. Rio Dyer (Dragons)
10. Sam Costelow (Scarlets)
9. Ellis Bevan (Cardiff Rugby)
1. Gareth Thomas (Ospreys)
2. Dewi Lake (Ospreys) captain
3. Archie Griffin (Bath Rugby)
4. Will Rowlands (Racing 92)
5. Christ Tshiunza (Exeter Chiefs)
6. James Botham (Cardiff Rugby)
7. Jac Morgan (Ospreys)
8. Taine Plumtree (Scarlets)

Replacements

16. Ryan Elias (Scarlets)
17. Nicky Smith (Leicester Tigers)
18. Keiron Assiratti (Cardiff Rugby)
19. Freddie Thomas (Gloucester Rugby)
20. Tommy Reffell (Leicester Tigers)
21. Rhodri Williams (Dragons)
22. Eddie James (Scarlets)
23. Josh Hathaway (Gloucester Rugby)