CARDIFF: Warren Gatland wasted little time in making his presence felt upon his return as Wales coach, making five changes for Saturday’s clash against world champions New Zealand at the Millennium Stadium.
The New Zealander is back in charge for Wales’s final two Tests of the European autumn series, against the All Blacks and the Wallabies, after starting his preparatory work as head coach for next year’s British and Irish Lions tour of Australia.
In his absence, Six Nations Grand Slam champions Wales have lost both their opening autumn Tests, against Argentina and Samoa, to make it five defeats in a row against all opponents.
Changes from last week’s 26-19 loss to Samoa see starts for centre Jonathan Davies, outside-half Rhys Priestland, back-row and captain Sam Warburton, lock Luke Charteris and hooker Matthew Rees.
Davies has recovered from a groin problem to make his first appearance of the autumn series, replacing Ashley Beck.
Meanwhile Priestland comes in for Dan Biggar, not considered because of a shoulder injury, Warburton replaces Justin Tipuric, Charteris takes over from the injured Ian Evans (knee) and former Wales captain Rees packs down alongside Paul James and Aaron Jarvis.
Wales have lost 24 successive Tests against the All Blacks -- who are unbeaten in 19 Tests.
“No-one is more disappointed than the players and the coaches with how things have gone in the last two weeks,” Gatland said yesterday.
“But those supporters who have been with us over the last 18 months know, just as we do, that we are a better side than we have displayed so far, and we will be looking to show that on Saturday,” he said. AFP
