The National Times - Gatland changes four for Wales clash with South Africa

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Gatland changes four for Wales clash with South Africa

SPORTS 20.11.2024

Gatland changes four for Wales clash with South Africa / Photo: © AFP

Under-pressure Wales coach Warren Gatland has made four changes to the starting XV thrashed by Australia to face South Africa in Cardiff on Saturday.

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Wales went down 52-20 to the Wallabies last weekend in what was a record 11th successive Test defeat, with Gatland's future the feature of much speculation.

Gatland named Sam Costelow at fly-half for the daunting fixture against the double world champions, while Rio Dyer gets his first run out on the wing with Blair Murray switching to full-back in place of Cam Winnett.

Christ Tshiunza replaces the injured Adam Beard in the second row while Taine Plumtree starts at No 8 instead of Aaron Wainwright.

Wales (15-1)

Blair Murray; Tom Rogers, Max Llewellyn, Ben Thomas, Rio Dyer; Sam Costelow, Ellis Bevan; Taine Plumtree, Jac Morgan, James Botham; Will Rowlands, Christ Tshiunza; Gareth Thomas, Dewi Lake (capt), Archie Griffin

Replacements: Ryan Elias, Nicky Smith, Keiron Assiratti, Freddie Thomas, Tommy Reffell, Rhodri Williams, Eddie James, Josh Hathaway

Coach: Warren Gatland (NZL)

W.Phillips--TNT

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