Sevens star Morgan handed first Wales start

Rugby

Luke Morgan is to make his first Wales start in the opening match of the autumn internationals against Scotland in Cardiff on Saturday.

Winger Morgan is Wales Seven’s all-time leading scorer and starts alongside international regulars George North and Leigh Halfpenny in the back three.

Cardiff fly-half Gareth Anscombe starts in the absence of Dan Biggar and Rhys Patchell and partners scrum-half Gareth Davies, while prop Dillon Lewis makes his first home appearance.

Alun Wyn Jones captains the side as Wales kick off their autumn internationals campaign, which also features Tests against Australia, Tonga and South Africa.

Head coach Warren Gatland returned to Wales on Wednesday having flown home to New Zealand following the death of his father last week.

“Warren has been in constant dialogue with us over the past week and we have selected a very strong squad for this weekend,” said assistant coach Rob Howley.

“It is great to reward players on form and we are looking forward to seeing Luke make his debut on the wing. He has come through the Sevens system, he will bring a point of difference to the squad and it’s a great opportunity for him.”

Wales team to face Scotland:

Backs: 15. Leigh Halfpenny 14. George North 13. Jonathan Davies 12. Hadleigh Parkes 11. Luke Morgan, 10. Gareth Anscombe, 9. Gareth Davies

Forwards: 1. Nicky Smith. 2. ken Owens 3. Dillon Lewis 4. Cory Hill 5. Alun Wyn Jones (captain) 6. Dan Lydiate 7. Justin Tipuric 8. Ross Moriarty

Replacements: 16. Elliot Dee 17. Rob Evans 18. Leon Brown 19. Adam Beard 20. Aaron Wainwright 21. Tomos Williams 22. Jarrod Evans 23. Steff Evans.

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