BBC Rugby Union: Wales Gear Up for Tough Second Test Against Australia
Ahead of the second Test against Australia in Melbourne on Saturday, the Welsh national rugby union team have made four changes to their starting lineup, including two positional switches in the back row.
Taine Plumtree will now occupy the number eight position, with Aaron Wainwright ruled out for the remainder of the tour due to a hamstring injury. James Botham has been called in to start at blindside flanker.
Additionally, Cameron Winnett will take over the full-back duties, with Liam Williams moving to the wing to replace the injured Josh Hathaway, who is sidelined with an elbow issue.
Mackenzie Martin has been included on the bench, filling the spot vacated by Botham’s promotion to the starting lineup.
“We expect Australia to go up another level this weekend and we know we need to as well,” said Head coach Warren Gatland.
Gatland emphasized the importance of a strong start and maintaining discipline and accuracy throughout the encounter.
“We’ve been going through our processes, building on what worked well and sharpening the areas that need improvement. We want to start well and make sure we are disciplined and accurate from the off. Then it’s about keeping in the arm-wrestle for the duration.”
The first Test in Sydney saw Australia secure a 25-16 victory over Wales. The Welsh will be determined to level the series in the second encounter at AAMI Park in Melbourne.
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