Wales look to bounce back in Six Nations clash with France

Ryan Jones returns to captain Wales, as they look to break a run of eight defeats in a row against France. Credit: PA

Wales prepare to face Les Bleus at Stade de France later as they fight to stay in this season's Six Nations title race.

The reigning champions were left reeling by a first-half no show against Ireland last weekend, ultimately losing 30-22.

A repeat performance would inevitably consign Wales to another defeat, leaving them scrapping for minor placings in a tournament they dominated last season.

Despite the side being haunted by a poor record in Paris - just three wins since 1975 - interim coach Rob Howley says a win is definitely within the team's grasp.

Wales, though, have arrived in the French capital as underdogs - especially with skipper Sam Warburton now on an injury list that has already included players like Dan Lydiate, Rhys Priestland, Alun-Wyn Jones and Luke Charteris.

Ryan Jones, who captains his country for the 30th time, and Justin Tipuric pack down in a reshaped back-row, while Ospreys hooker Richard Hibbard takes over from Matthew Rees, but it is behind the scrum where Wales must show a considerable improvement.

Howley has kept faith with a back division that struggled badly in the first-half against Ireland, yet the ability is unquestionably there if players can rediscover the composure to underpin their talent.

It will be another major examination for fly-half playmaker Dan Biggar, but today could be the day when he emerges from the shadows of players like Priestland and James Hook.