Wales head coach Steve Tandy will name his side to face South Africa in the Nations Championship on Saturday, with several changes expected following last weekend's 35-21 defeat to Argentina in San Juan. The team announcement is scheduled for 8am BST on Thursday.
Midfield and Back-Three Changes Expected
One area where a change is anticipated is in midfield, with the current centre partnership of Joe Hawkins and Eddie James yet to provide the fluency Wales need in attack. Tandy is also likely to consider a change at outside-half and in the back-three ahead of facing Rassie Erasmus' Springboks side.
Dewi Lake Injury Update
Wales have not ruled out captain Dewi Lake after he was forced off with a groin injury against Argentina. The hooker partially took part in training on Tuesday. If he is not deemed fit to play, Ryan Elias is expected to start in the number two jersey. Hooker Elliot Dee has been added to the squad and arrived in Durban on Tuesday alongside Gloucester forward Freddie Thomas, with Taine Plumtree carrying a knock.
Uncapped Players and Squad Rotation
Seven players—Evan Lloyd, Gareth Thomas, Sam Wainwright, Tommy Reffell, Reuben Morgan-Williams, and Ben Thomas—have yet to feature for Wales in the Nations Championship. Tandy is likely to bring at least some of them into the matchday squad for the Durban clash.
Springboks Make 10 Changes
Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus named his team earlier this week, making 10 changes to the side that started their 42-28 win over Scotland last weekend. Four uncapped players have been included: wing Jaco Williams, fly-half Vusi Moyo, lock Ruben van Heerden, and prop Carlu Sadie, all making their Test debuts.
Graham Price's Analysis
Wales and Lions legend Graham Price has previewed the clash and believes Tandy must make two key changes to carry a threat in Durban. His full column is available on WalesOnline.
