North takes central role for Wales

George North will start in the centre when Wales open their autumn Test campaign against Australia at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

With Jonathan Davies and Scott Williams both absent due to injuries, Wales head coach Warren Gatland has switched juggernaut Northampton wing North into midfield, where he will be partnered by Jamie Roberts.

In-form Scarlets back Liam Williams will wear the number 11 shirt, while Rhys Webb has edged out Mike Phillips for the scrum-half role.

Up-front, Bath prop Paul James earns a start ahead of Gethin Jenkins, Jake Ball is Alun-Wyn Jones’ second-row partner and Dan Lydiate features at blindside flanker despite his lack of game-time with French club Racing Metro this season.