Wales recall James

Wales have called up Test Lion Dafydd James after it was confirmed centre Tom Shanklin will miss Saturday’s Test against Canada.

Shanklin limped off after nine minutes of the 58-14 victory over Fiji at the Millennium Stadium last weekend, and coach Steve Hansen admitted the Saracens star was likely to be out for several weeks, meaning he will almost certainly also miss the visit of New Zealand to Cardiff on November 23.

James’ recall represents something of a reprieve for the Bridgend player after he was omitted from the squad for Wales’ autumn Tests.

But options at centre had been getting worse for the Welsh with Shanklin joining Mark Taylor and Leigh Davies on the injury list, leaving Jamie Robinson and Sonny Parker as their only fit players in that position.

Cardiff winger Nick Walne has also been called into the squad as cover for Craig Morgan, who hurt his shoulder against Romania two weeks ago. It is hoped Morgan could recover in time for the clash with the All Blacks.