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Wales make nine changes for Argentina clash

Wales make nine changes for Pumas clash
© PA Photos
Warren Gatland makes nine changes to the team that beat England on Saturday.

Wales coach Warren Gatland has made nine changes to the team that beat England 19-9 on Saturday, ahead of this weekend’s home clash with Argentina.

Veteran flanker Martyn Williams picks up his 99th Wales cap, one game away from equalling Gareth Thomas and Stephen Jones at 100.

The back row is completed with Dan Lydiate and Ryan Jones, who captains the side for the 28th time - equalling Ieuan Evans’ record.

Bradley Davies replaces Luke Charteris at lock, pairing up with Osprey Alun Wyn Jones.

Adam Jones returns from injury and joins fellow Osprey Dan Hibbard as a fresh face in the front row alongside Paul James.

In the backs, the injured Gavin Henson makes way for Scarlets centre Jonathan Davies, while fellow Scarlet Tavis Knoyle gets his first start of the summer warm-up series at scrum half.

Blues winger Leigh Halfpenny replaces Shane Williams, while first-choice full-back Lee Byrne returns from injury sending James Hook to fly half.

“Criteria for selection has been about putting together a side to win the game, but also about giving some players the opportunity to impress and, therefore, bid for selection for the World Cup,” coach Warren Gatland commented.

“Beating the Pumas on Saturday would also mean we retain that all-important winning momentum going into the World Cup.”

Warren Gatland will name his 30-man World Cup squad on August 22.

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