Faletau returns as Wales make key changes for Italy showdown

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has made two changes to his side ahead of their crucial Six Nations clash against Italy in Rome on Saturday.

Taulupe Faletau, the experienced No. 8, returns to Test rugby for the first time since the 2023 Rugby World Cup, while Scarlets centre Eddie James earns his first start for the national team.

Faletau, who boasts 104 caps for Wales in addition to four for the British & Irish Lions, has been sidelined since breaking his arm in Wales' World Cup pool-stage win over Georgia. His return to club rugby was also disrupted by a fractured shoulder suffered while playing for Cardiff.

The 34-year-old replaces Aaron Wainwright, who sustained a deep facial cut during Wales' 43-0 defeat to France in the tournament opener. Wainwright, cleared of a fracture, has been named among the replacements, with Leicester flanker Tommy Reffell dropping out of the squad.

In the backline, Eddie James will make his first international start, stepping in for Owen Watkin, who suffered a suspected knee ligament tear against France. Watkin's injury could sideline him for the remainder of the season.

James, who has won three caps off the bench, will partner with Nick Tompkins in midfield.

As Wales prepare for a must-win match following 13 consecutive defeats, Gatland emphasized the importance of discipline and execution.

“This has been an important week with a lot of hard work put in during training,” he stated.

“We want to be accurate and disciplined on Saturday. It’s about our execution and how we manage the game. 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.”

Wales: 15 Liam Williams, 14 Tom Rogers, 13 Nick Tompkins, 12 Eddie James, 11 Josh Adams, 10 Ben Thomas, 9 Tomos Williams, 8 Taulupe Faletau, 7 Jac Morgan (c), 6 James Botham, 5 Dafydd Jenkins, 4 Will Rowlands, 3 Henry Thomas, 2 Evan Lloyd, 1 Gareth Thomas

Reserves: 16 Elliot Dee, 17 Nicky Smith, 18 Keiron Assiratti, 19 Freddie Thomas, 20 Aaron Wainwright, 21 Rhodri Williams, 22 Dan Edwards, 23 Blair Murray