Llewellyn to equal Welsh record

Gareth Llewellyn will equal the Welsh international cap record when he lines up in Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations Championship clash against Italy.

The Neath-Swansea Ospreys lock will make his 87th Test appearance, equalling the mark of former Wales fly-half Neil Jenkins.

Llewellyn, 35, has been called into the team as replacement for Celtic Warriors forward Brent Cockbain, who suffered an ankle injury during last weekend’s defeat against England at Twickenham.

Flanker Jonathan Thomas, who has thigh and shoulder problems, is also out. Martyn Williams returns to the back row, so skipper Colin Charvis moves from open side to blind side.

Wales coach Steve Hansen will make a late decision on his centre partnership.