Jones spared the axe for Scotland visit
WALES coach Warren Gatland has kept faith with Alun-Wyn Jones for Saturday’s Six Nations clash against
Scotland despite his role in last week’s opening defeat to England.
Jones was sin-binned at Twickenham and England took full advantage, amassing 17 points without reply on their way to a 30-17 victory. Gatland tore into Jones post-match but has handed him the chance to make amends at the Millennium Stadium.
The two changes Gatland has made to the starting line-up see Cardiff Blues wing Leigh Halfpenny replace Tom James and Ospreys lock Jonathan Thomas come in for Luke Charteris.
“We were all disappointed with the result last weekend,” said Gatland. “But the good news for these players is that they have an opportunity now, seven days after losing a game we all feel we could have won, to bounce back against Scotland. This is a must-win game.” Gatland blamed Jones, who was yellow-carded for tripping Dylan
Hartley, after the England loss and the relieved Ospreys star yesterday admitted: “I did honestly think I had jeopardised my international career.”
Scotland boss Andy Robinson, meanwhile, has recalled fly-half Dan Parks as one of three changes to the team that lost 18-9 to France last week.
Big-kicking Parks, who won the last of his 47 caps in November 2008, returns in place of Phil Godman, while prop Euan Murray comes in for Moray Low, as expected. Rory Lamont replaces brother Sean on the left wing, with his sibling moving to outside centre in an effort by Robinson to beef up his midfield.
Max Evans drops to the bench, while full-back Chris Paterson is set to become the first Scot to win 100 caps.
Meanwhile Ireland wing Keith Earls replaces Andrew Trimble in the only change for Saturday’s trip to France.
Fly-half Ronan O’Gara keeps his place despite Jonathan Sexton’s recovery from injury, while flanker Stephen Ferris is selected pending a fitness test.