Wales hope Faletau proves fitness to start in Rome

Men’s Six Nations: Italy v Wales

Venue: Stadio Olimpico, Rome Date: Saturday, 8 February Kick-off: 14: 15 GMT

If the number eight’s fitness is demonstrated, Wales will start Taulupe Faletau in Saturday’s Six Nations game against Italy in Rome.

Eddie James’ first Wales start will also be discussed by Warren Gatland, who could make two changes from the side that lost to France with a 43-0 record.

If the Dragons’ back row recovers from a facial injury suffered at the Stade de France, Wales also hopes to add Dragons number eight Aaron Wainwright to the 23-man squad.

Owen Watkin, who has been ruled out of the rest of the tournament because he needs surgery for a serious knee injury sustained in Paris, is set to be replaced by James, 22.

James, who has made three previous Wales replacement appearances, is in line to partner Nick Tompkins in yet another midfield combination.

Due to a knee problem, Cardiff number eight Faletau was unable to face France.

The 34-year-old has represented Wales in 104 international matches and in five Test matches.

Due to a number of injuries, Faletau hasn’t played an international since winning the World Cup pool against Georgia in October 2023.

Since losing 13 consecutive international matches, including seven Six Nations defeats on the bounce, in that match, Wales has won just once against Gatland’s side.

Wainwright, 27, took a blow to his head in the fourth minute at the Stade de France, but he was unharmed. Neither he nor he suffered a concussion or facial fracture.

“He doesn’t have that fracture, so we are pretty hopeful he will be available”, said forwards coach Jonathan Humphreys.

“He had an unbelievable gash. That’s the thing for us. He’s a tough kid and he’s like ‘ I’ll be all right, they can just stitch me back up’, but it’s a pretty bad gash.

” He’s got eight days to turn around]between games] so we are hopeful, especially since he’s desperate to play. “

In the final few training sessions before the game, Faletau and Wainwright will need to demonstrate their fitness.