adminWEYBRIDGE. — Wales have recalled tough-tackling flanker Dan Lydiate for their Rugby World Cup quarter-final against South Africa at Twickenham tomorrow.
Lydiate slots into the back-row in place of the benched Justin Tipuric, with captain Sam Warburton moving across from blindside to openside flanker.
He was one of three changes announced by coach Warren Gatland yesterday to the team that started the 15-6 defeat by Australia in last weekend’s Pool A decider at Twickenham.
Tyler Morgan comes at centre to partner Jamies Roberts in midfield as George North returns to the wing — Liam Williams having been ruled out of the tournament because of injury — while prop Gethin Jenkins starts in place of Paul James.
“After coming through an incredibly tough Pool, we are excited to be in the quarter-finals and returning to Twickenham,” said Gatland, who four years ago guided the Welsh to a World Cup semi-final in his native New Zealand.
The physicality and intensity of the matches so far will stand us in good stead for what is going to be a huge battle against the Springboks.”
South Africa started this World Cup with a shock 34-32 loss to Japan but then won their next three matches to top Pool B. “They have grown game on game in this tournament and we know the challenge that faces us from a talented South African side,” Gatland added.
Wales (15-1)
Gareth Anscombe; Alex Cuthbert, Tyler Morgan, Jamie Roberts, George North; Dan Biggar, Gareth Davies; Taulupe Faletau, Sam Warburton (capt), Dan Lydiate; Alun Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris; Samson Lee, Scott Baldwin, Gethin Jenkins
Replacements: Ken Owens, Paul James, Tomas Francis, Bradley Davies, Justin Tipuric, Lloyd Williams, Rhys Priestland, James Hook. — AFP.
Online Reporter