Wales opt for centre power pair against Japan

Wales head coach Steve Tandy has opted for power in his centre partnership by bringing in Max Llewellyn alongside Eddie James for the Nations Championship opener against Japan on Saturday (16:40 GMT).

Llewellyn, 6ft 6in (1.96m) and 16st 12lbs (107kg) and James, 6ft 4in (1.90m) and 16st 3lbs (103kg), will form one of Wales' biggest midfield combinations.

Tandy has abandoned his policy of selecting a more recognised ball-player at inside centre with Llewellyn named in the 12 jersey.

Fly-half Sam Costelow is preferred to Dan Edwards, while wings Josh Adams and Louis Rees-Zammit and full-back Blair Murray form the back three.