Wales will wait on Thomas

Wales have announced their side for the clash with Ireland on Sunday, but have left the right wing spot open as they await the verdict on Gareth Thomas’s disciplinary hearing.

No decision has been made on who would replace Thomas should he be unavailable, a factor that may well give Gavin Henson hope. Henson, trialed at full-back last week, is not included in the twenty-two and may have a late chance if Thomas is found guilty.

James Hook will line up at inside centre with Stephen Jones and Dwayne Peel resuming their partnership at half-back.

The pack has a new look to it as Head Coach Gareth Jenkins goes for a muscular approach, meaning a return to the side for Chris Horsman. Alix Popham takes the six shirt, with Jonathan Thomas lacking in match time since recovering from injury.

Wales: 15 Kevin Morgan, 14 AN Other, 13 Hal Luscombe, 12 James Hook, 11 Chris Czekaj, 10 Stephen Jones (c), 9 Dwayne Peel, 8 Ryan Jones, 7 Martyn Williams, 6 Alix Popham, 5 Alun Wyn Jones, 4 Ian Gough, 3 Chris Horsman, 2 Rhys Thomas, 1 Gethin Jenkins.
Replacements: 16 Matthew Rees, 17 Duncan Jones, 18 Robert Sidoli, 19 Gavin Thomas, 20 Mike Phillips, 21 Ceri Sweeney, 22 Jamie Robinson.

Date: Sunday 4th February 2007
Venue: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
Kick Off: 15.00 (GMT)
Weather Forecast: Clear skies are forecast with some sunshine – perfect weather for running rugby.
Referee: Kelvin Deaker (New Zealand)
Touch judges: Steve Walsh (New Zealand), David Changleng (Scotland)
Television match official: tba (England)
Assessor: Steve Hilditch (Ireland)

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