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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Matthew Southcombe

Wales name strong team to face Fiji as Warren Gatland rotates back-row for Rugby World Cup clash

Wales have made two changes to the starting XV that beat Australia last week as they face Fiji on Wednesday.

Dan Biggar has been passed as fit, coming through his return to play protocols this week after failing a head injury assessment against the Wallabies.

It means Warren Gatland has a healthy squad to choose from but has made two tactical tweaks to his line-up.

Scarlets flanker James Davies comes in to replace Justin Tipuric, who is rested for the match, providing Davies with an opportunity to get some minutes under his belt before the knockout stages.

Elsewhere, Ross Moriarty comes in to start at No.8, with Aaron Wainwright dropping to the bench and Josh Navidi moving to No.8.

The only change to the side comes on the bench, where 21-year-old Rhys Carre comes in to replace Nicky Smith.

Rhys Carre during training (Ben Evans/Huw Evans Agency)

Gatland has resisted the temptation to make wholesale changes for the game, which is a sign of respect for the threats Fiji pose.

It means the backline, that looked razor sharp at times against Australia and Georgia, remains unchanged.

The front five, that has laid a solid platform so far in this tournament, is also asked to go again.

Wales will be looking to consolidate their place at the top of Pool D. A victory in Oita would secure their place in the quarter-finals but they will still need to beat Uruguay to finish as Pool winners.

Wales: Liam Williams; George North, Jonathan Davies, Hadleigh Parkes, Josh Adams; Dan Biggar, Gareth Davies; Wyn Jones, Ken Owens, Tomas Francis; Jake Ball, Alun Wyn Jones (C); Josh Navidi, James Davies, Ross Moriarty

Reps: Elliot Dee, Rhys Carre, Dillon Lewis, Aaron Shingler, Aaron Wainwright, Tomos Williams, Rhys Patchell, Owen Watkin.

Fiji: Kini Murimurivalu; Josua Tuisova, Waisea Nayacalevu, Lepani Botia, Semi Radradra; Ben Volavola, Frank Lomani; Campese Ma’afu, Samuel Matavesi, Manasa Saulo; Tevita Cavubati, Leone Nakarawa; Dominiko Waqaniburotu (C), Semi Kunatani, Viliame Mata.

Reps: Mesulame Dolokoto, Eroni Mawi, Peni Ravai, Apisalome Ratuniyarawa, Peceli Yato, Nikola Matawalu, Jale Vatubua, Josh Matavesi.

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