Jones' return is only Wales challenge

Mark Jones has recovered from ankle ligament damage to be named on the wing for Wales’ RBS 6 Nations clash with Scotland at Murrayfield.

Jones comes into the side for Hal Luscombe, who is struggling with a knee injury, as the only change to the Welsh back division from last weekend’s 19-9 defeat to Ireland.

But head coach Gareth Jenkins has made three alterations to the pack for Saturday’s Test.

Props Adam Jones and Duncan Jones replace Chris Horsman and Gethin Jenkins in the front row, while Robert Sidoli starts at lock ahead of Ian Gough.

Coach Jenkins said: “We’ve said ’same again’ to most of the back-line that faced Ireland and given them the chance to add a more clinical edge to what they achieved last weekend, with Mark Jones as the only change providing a welcome boost in Hal’s absence.

“Hal injured his knee against the Irish and Mark’s return to full fitness has come just at the right time for us.

“In the forwards we are blessed with an abundance of talent at prop and we have gone for both Adam and Duncan to give us the kind of impetus and freshness we will require there in light of the six-day turnaround before this fixture.

“Chris and Gethin both did their jobs well last weekend, but we are lucky to be able to utilise the strength in depth we have in their respective areas.

“In the second row Ian Gough also gives way to a fresher Rob Sidoli in another selection choice which is testimony to the talent available in this squad.”

Cardiff’s Jamie Robinson continues at outside centre but Tom Shanklin makes a welcome return from injury to win a place on the bench.

Winger Shane Williams was not considered for selection after being hit by a stomach bug and there is still no place in the squad for Gavin Henson.

“We are also pleased to name Tom Shanklin on the bench, who should play some part in proceedings on Saturday, although his recent injury has left him a little short of match practice,” said Jenkins.

“Shane is still not well and we have had to send him home.”

Wales head to Scotland determined to bounce back from their opening weekend defeat – and Jenkins insists they remain in the hunt for the Six Nations title.

He said: “We may have lost the first battle of the Championship, but that doesn’t mean our campaign is over by any means.

“Scotland are not a side to be underestimated, they can be especially dangerous at home and we will not be going into this game under-estimating them.

“But there were many positive points to take from our performance against Ireland and we will be looking to the Scotland game for a marked improvement and to get our Six Nations trophy challenge back on track.”