Wales 'desperate' to finish well in Pool A

  • Wales

Wales are ‘desperate’ to win Saturday’s Pool A decider against Australia to ensure they get the easier route through to the final.

Whichever team tops the group will face Scotland or Japan in next week’s quarter-finals, while the runner-up will tackle twice world champions South Africa. Wales haven’t beaten the Wallabie since 2008, but Warren Gatland says his side has learned from losing to the Australians.

Credit: PA
Justin Tipuric features in Gatland's starting XV Credit: PA

Gatland’s made six changes to his side to face the Wallabies at Twickenham this weekend, with Paul James and Liam Williams both returning from injury to start. Justin Tipuric also features in the starting XV with captain Sam Warburton moving across to blindside to make room in the back row.

Read more: Gatland names his side for Pool A decider

There are some notable absences from the team, including Dan Lydiate, who Gatland says got a knock to the eye in last week’s 23-13 win over Fiji

Gatland described Tipuric’s recent form as ‘outstanding’ said he deserves the opportunity to start against Australia.

Read more: Wales and Australia vie for easier route to finals