Wales back Williams against All Blacks

Liam Williams has been called in to replace the injured George North Credit: David Davies/PA Archive/Press Association Images

Wales assistant coach Robin McBryde believes Scarlets back Liam Williams can stand up to the pressure of facing world champions New Zealand on Saturday.

The 21 year-old has been drafted onto the wing for Wales to replace George North who suffered a hip injury in training on Tuesday.

Williams, who won his one and only cap in Wales' victory over the Barbarians in June, has been in sparkling form for the Scarlets this season, albeit in his preferred position of full-back.

North's withdrawal is just the latest in a long line of injuries which has hit Wales' autumn campaign, depriving them of the services of Adam Jones, Dan Lydiate, Alun Wyn Jones, Josh Turnbull, Richard Hibbard, Dan Biggar and Ian Evans.

Although McBride is confident Wales will not be weakened by Williams inclusion but admits losing North is a dent to their challenge.

Wales have not beaten New Zealand since 1953, and have suffered 24 consecutive defeats at the hands of the All Blacks.

New Zealand, meanwhile, are unbeaten in their last 19 Tests and have racked up 93 points in beating Scotland and Italy so far on this tour.

It's those statistics which means Wales will be firm underdogs when Steve Hansen's men take to the Millennium Stadium turf on Saturday evening.

Meanwhile New Zealand will wait on the fitness of star fly-half Dan Carter. Carter, who missed the world cup final due to injury, pulled up during training on Thursday with a leg problem.

The All Blacks confirmed they will make a decision on the 30 year-old's fitness ahead of the captains run on Friday.

Wales Team to face New Zealand:

Leigh Halfpenny, Alex Cuthbert, Jonathan Davies, Jamie Roberts, Liam Williams, Rhys Priestland, Mike Phillips; Paul James, Matthew Rees, Aaron Jarvis, Bradley Davies, Luke Charteris, Ryan Jones, Sam Warburton (captain), Toby Faletau.

New Zealand team to face Wales:

Israel Dagg; Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Julian Savea; Dan Carter, Aaron Smith; Tony Woodcock, Andrew Hore, Owen Franks, Luke Romano, Sam Whitelock, Liam Messam, Richie McCaw (captain), Kieran Read.