Lions boost as Wales make three changes

The return of three British and Irish Lions will be a boost for Wales after coach Warren Gatland named Dan Biggar, Leigh Halfpenny and Liam Williams for their Six Nations clash against Ireland in Dublin.

But Taulupe Faletau, who Wales declared ready to play on Monday, is not in the matchday 23 as the Welsh seek to end the hosts’ perfect start.

Biggar has recovered from a shoulder injury and will play for the first time in this year’s tournament as he replaces Rhys Patchell at five-eighth.

Williams, who has recovered from a groin injury, has not played for Wales since they beat Georgia in November and comes onto the wing in place of Josh Adams.

Halfpenny had been named to play against England but pulled out before kick-off with a foot infection.

Gareth Anscombe took his place in the 12-6 defeat at Twickenham and drops to the bench for Saturday’s clash.

“It is great to be able to bring so much experience back into the starting XV and into the back line,” said Gatland, who will take charge of Wales for the 100th time.

“It is the first week we have had everyone in the green in terms of availability which is a nice luxury to have and a positive ahead of what is a very important Test match against a very good Ireland side.

“We have been pleased with the depth we have developed in the back-three and pleased with how those players have gone but having the experience of Dan, Liam and Leigh coming back in is hugely important.”

WALES: Leigh Halfpenny, Liam Williams, Scott Williams, Hadleigh Parkes, Steff Evans, Dan Biggar, Gareth Davies, Ross Moriarty, Josh Navidi, Aaron Shingler, Alun Wyn Jones (capt), Cory Hill, Samson Lee, Ken Owens, Rob Evans. Replacements: Elliot Dee, Wyn Jones, Tomas Francis, Bradley Davies, Justin Tipuric, Aled Davies, Gareth Anscombe, George North.

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