Williams to miss battle with Ireland

WALES wing Shane Williams will miss the February 4 Six Nations opener against Ireland because of a hip injury. Williams, injured in the Ospreys’ win at Sale, joins Mark Jones — also a first choice wing — on the sidelines.

Wales have asked Gavin Henson to play at full-back for the Ospreys against Ulster, suggesting a possible wing pair of Gareth Thomas and Kevin Morgan. Locks Brent Cockbain and Robert Sidoli have also been asked to get game time in this weekend’s Magners League games.

Wales have recalled former captain Colin Charvis to their 33-man Six Nations squad. The in-form Dragons flanker, 34, could add to his 84 caps after being left out of the autumn Tests. Injuries at hooker mean Mefin Davies, 34, wins a recall, while 28-year-old Scott Morgan is the only uncapped player in the squad.