Wales team to play Japan: Faletau out with injury

The Wales team to play Japan has been confirmed as the men in red look to win their first Test match in 18 matches. Interim head coach Matt Sherratt has made four changes to his side which lost 24-19 against the Braves Blossoms last week in Kitakyushu.

One of the main talking points from the team announcement is that Taulupe Faletau will not be involved for Wales. He is replaced by Aaron Wainwright who makes his return to the starting lineup after making an appearance off the bench last weekend

After earning just his third cap as an international Josh Macleod remains in the starting XV after waiting two half years between his second and third caps. Alex Mann will also remain at blindside with Tommy Reffell and Taine Plumtree named on the bench.

Interim head coach, Matt Sherratt said: “Toby had a little bit heat stress related cramping [following the game]. We decided it was best Aaron Wainwright starts at No 8.”

Despite having an uncharacteristic performance last weekend Blair Murray will make his 10th appearance for Wales at fullback. He’ll be joined by try scorer from last week Tom Rogers and Josh Adams to complete the back three.

Cardiff Rugby’s Ben Thomas opened up Wales’ scoring last week and joining him despite having a slow start Johnny Williams remains in the starting lineup. Whilst Keelan Giles set for his debut on the bench.

Dan Edwards will make his first start in the Welsh Jersey after coming off the bench in his first two appearances in the Six Nations against France and Italy. He is joined by Kieran Hardy who made his return to the international stage rather underwhelmingly.

Head coach Sherratt added: “I want to have a little bit of a freshen up. So, Dan Edwards comes in at ten.

“Dan’s trained brilliantly over the three weeks. He was great in the Six Nations so we want to have a look at him.”

After starting all of Wales’ last Autumn Nation Series matches Bath Rugby’s Archie Griffin returns to the starting XV in replacement of Kieron Assiratti. He is joined by Nicky Smith at loosehead.

Dewi Lake will captain the side from hooker, but like many will want to improve on last week’s performance.

Freddie Thomas comes straight into the starting XV and will join Teddy Williams. This comes as Ben Carter was released from the squad after sustaining an head injury last weekend. Both will be looking to pick up their first win as Welsh internationals.

Dragons RFC Christian Coleman and Ospreys duo of Reuben Morgan-Williams and Keelan Giles could all make their Wales international debut with an appearance from the bench.

Wales: Blair Murray, Tom Rogers, Johnny Williams, Ben Thomas, Josh Adams; Dan Edwards, Kieran Hardy; Nicky Smith, Dewi Lake (C), Archie Griffin, Freddie Thomas, Teddy Williams, Alex Mann, Josh Macleod, Aaron Wainwright.

Replacements: Liam Belcher, Gareth Thomas, Chris Coleman, James Ratti, Taine Plumtree, Tommy Reffell, Reuben Morgan-Williams, Keelan Giles.