Interim head coach Matt Sherratt, who will be in charge for his first game following Warren Gatland’s departure, has made eight personnel changes from the side that lost 22-15 against Italy in Rome a fortnight ago, Wales’ 14th successive Test loss.
In a shake up of the front row, Dragons hooker Elliot Dee returns to pack down with WillGriff John and Leicester’s Nicky Smith while Racing 92’s Will Rowlands partners Dafydd Jenkins who has recovered from illness to play at lock.
Captain Jac Morgan starts at blindside flanker, Tommy Reffell is at openside flanker, his first start of the 2025 Championship, and Taulupe Faletau completes the back row at number eight.
Veteran Anscombe makes his first Six Nations start since inspiring Wales to a Grand Slam victory against Ireland in Cardiff six years ago at fly-half, and is partnered by Gloucester scrum-half Tomos Williams.
It is all change in midfield with Cardiff’s Ben Thomas moving to his preferred position of centre. He is partnered by on form Gloucester man Llewellyn.
In an all Scarlet backline, Tom Rogers joins debutant Mee on the wing, while Blair Murray completes the starting XV at fullback.
Josh Adams is ruled out with a knee injury.
Jarrod Evans is named among the replacements and could make his first appearance for Wales since summer 2021.
Evan Lloyd, Gareth Thomas, Henry Thomas Teddy Williams and Aaron Wainwright provide the forward cover.
Rhodri Williams, and Joe Roberts are the other replacement backs.
Speaking on his selection Wales Interim Head Coach Matt Sherratt said:
“We’re looking forward to the challenge of facing Ireland.
“Everyone is excited for our first home game of the Six Nations. The atmosphere Wales fans create at Principality Stadium is incredible and playing at home is something the players really look forward to.
“We have spoken this week about being brave, but not reckless and making sure everyone knows their roles. We also know that keeping our discipline will be huge.”
Wales XV to face Italy:
Blair Murray, Tom Rogers, Max Llewellyn, Ben Thomas, Ellis Mee, Gareth Anscombe,
Tomos Williams
Nicky Smith, Elliott Dee, WillGriff John, Will Rowlands, Dafydd Jenkins, Jac Morgan (captain), Tommy Reffell, Taulupe Faletau.
Replacements:
Evan Lloyd, Gareth Thomas, Henry Thomas, Teddy Williams, Aaron Wainwright, Rhodri Williams, Jarrod Evans, Joe Roberts.
[Lead image: Welsh Rugby Union]
