Wales pick power pair at centre against Japan for Nations Championship opener

A different centre combination

Llewellyn joins James in the starting midfield, with Llewellyn named at inside centre. Tandy has used Joe Hawkins or Ben Thomas in the number 12 jersey in each of his previous 12 internationals.

Thomas is unavailable with a calf injury, while Hawkins has not been included in the 23-player squad for the autumn games. Before the season began, Llewellyn told BBC Sport Wales that inside centre was his preferred position.

James’ role at centre

James came through at the Scarlets as a more natural number 12. Tandy has said he sees the 24-year-old from Carmarthen as part of Wales’ future at outside centre. The pairing brings together two players with experience at inside centre, while Llewellyn takes the number 12 shirt for the Japan match.

Wales’ team and campaign

Dewi Lake captains a front row featuring props Nicky Smith and Archie Griffin. Dafydd Jenkins, recovered from a knee injury, partners Ben Carter in the second row; Alex Mann, Jac Morgan and Aaron Wainwright make up the back row.

Nine of the 15 starters, including six forwards, play club rugby in England. The team includes three Scarlets players, two from Cardiff and one Dragon, with no Ospreys in the starting side; half-backs Edwards and Reuben Morgan-Williams are among the replacements.

Wales beat Fiji in July before losing to Argentina and South Africa. Wales and Japan are both fifth in their respective hemisphere tables.