Six Nations
Wales move Hook to fly-half
2011-02-08 16:47
Cardiff - James Hook will start at fly-half for Wales in their Six Nations match against Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday as the team bid to end a run of eight straight games without a win.
Hook has long been regarded as one of the most talented players in the Welsh back division but has struggled to nail down a regular starting position.
But this weekend he will wear the No 10 jersey instead of the 96-times capped Stephen Jones, regarded as more of a kicking fly-half, after featuring at full-back during last week's 26-19 first round loss at home to England.
Jones is on the bench after suffering a neck injury against the English.
"James has a real opportunity to show what a quality player he is," said Wales head coach Warren Gatland.
"There is a certain amount of risk involved as he has not started a game at fly-half this season, but the decision was made easier considering Stephen has been limited in what he can do in the early part of this week after the bump he picked up early on against England."
Meanwhile Lee Byrne is in at full-back with former captain Ryan Jones replacing the injured Andy Powell (shoulder) at No 8.
Morgan Stoddart is still in at right wing despite breaking his hand against England but he faces further fitness tests before Saturday's match.
Wales (15-1):
Lee Byrne; Morgan Stoddart, Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Shane Williams; James Hook, Mike Phillips; Ryan Jones, Sam Warburton, Dan Lydiate; Alun-Wyn Jones, Bradley Davies; Craig Mitchell, Matthew Rees (captain), Paul James
Replacements: Richard Hibbard, John Yapp, Jonathan Thomas, Josh Turnbull, Tavis Knoyle, Stephen Jones, Rhys Priestland