Wales looking for response after whitewash in Six Nations opener

Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has named his side to take on Italy as they look to bounce back from a whitewash.

Gatland’s side were thrashed 43-0 by a dominant France in Paris last weekend, and now head to Rome where they face an Italian side who also lost their opener; 31-19 to Scotland.

Ahead of the match, Gatland said: “This has been an important week with a lot of hard work put in during training.

“We know Italy are a quality side with physical players and are looking forward to a good contest. We’re excited for the challenge on Saturday.”

Hooker Elliot Dee, from Newbridge, remains on the bench to provide the forward cover.

Wales side to face Italy:

• 15. Liam Williams (Saracens – 93 caps)
• 14. Tom Rogers (Scarlets – 6 caps)
• 13. Nick Tompkins (Saracens – 39 caps)
• 12. Eddie James (Scarlets – 3 caps)
• 11. Josh Adams (Cardiff Rugby – 60 caps)
• 10. Ben Thomas (Cardiff Rugby – 8 caps)
• 9. Tomos Williams (Gloucester Rugby – 60 caps)
• 1. Gareth Thomas (Ospreys – 36 caps)
• 2. Evan Lloyd (Cardiff Rugby – 6 caps)
• 3. Henry Thomas (Scarlets – 5 caps)
• 4. Will Rowlands (Racing 92 – 37 caps)
• 5. Dafydd Jenkins (Exeter Chiefs – 20 caps)
• 6. James Botham (Cardiff Rugby – 17 caps)
• 7. Jac Morgan (Ospreys – 19 caps) – captain
• 8. Taulupe Faletau (Cardiff Rugby – 104 caps)

Replacements:

• 16. Elliot Dee (Dragons– 52 caps)
• 17. Nicky Smith (Leicester Tigers – 50 caps)
• 18. Keiron Assiratti (Cardiff Rugby – 11 caps)
• 19. Freddie Thomas (Gloucester Rugby – 2 caps)
• 20. Aaron Wainwright (Dragons – 53 caps)
• 21. Rhodri Williams (Dragons – 6 caps)
• 22. Dan Edwards (Ospreys – 1 cap)
• 23. Blair Murray (Scarlets – 4 caps)

Wales kick-off against Italy from Stadio Olimpico, Rome, on Saturday February 8 at 2.15pm.