Justin Tipuric and Rhys Webb doubtful for Wales' clash against Australia

Ospreys duo Justin Tipuric and Rhys Webb are doubtful starters for the Wales' autumn international opener against Australia after picking up injuries.

Tipuric is struggling with a thigh injury while Webb has sustained a leg injury that is likely to keep them out of the Saturday's clash at Principality Stadium.

Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards stated that the duo will be given time until Thursday when the team is announced to prove their fitness.

"We have a couple of knocks with Rhys Webb and Justin Tipuric," said Edwards.

"We will wait until the last minute until we name the team on Thursday.

"We will give them as much time as possible before making an educated decision."

Wales head coach Warren Gatland, meanwhile, is expected to name Gloucester back Owen Williams at inside centre, with Scarlets wing Steff Evans taking over from an injured George North.

Edwards is expecting a stiff challenge from Australia, who will be brimming with confidence following their wins over New Zealand and Japan.

"We all know what an unbelievable attacking threat Australia are, averaging 33 points a game," Edwards added.

"If you look at our fixtures since Warren took over, they have always been tough in the autumn.

"We nearly always play the likes of Australia, South Africa and New Zealand, and we are playing all three this time. It is certainly not a resting month, put it that way.

"Australia are an immense attacking weapon. I would say they are the most potent attacking force in the first three phases in world rugby, probably even more than the All Blacks.

"They (Australia) are perennially a top-four ranked team, their attack is pretty prolific and they have a multitude of excellent backs."

Wales will face Australia, Georgia, New Zealand and South Africa in their autumn international series.