Rugby: Paterson to play 100th test for Scotland

EDINBURGH - Scotland fullback Chris Paterson will become the 13th player to make 100 international appearances after being picked for Sunday's (NZT) Six Nations match at Wales.

Paterson keeps his place at No 15 but Scotland coach Andy Robinson made four changes to the side beaten 18-9 by France in its opening match last weekend.

Robinson announced the team today, with Euan Murray returning at tighthead prop for Moray Low, Dan Parks replacing Phil Godman at first five-eighths and Rory Lamont coming in on the left wing.

Sean Lamont moves from the wing to outside centre, with Max Evans dropping out.

Robinson praised Paterson for his contribution to the side.

"He has been a fantastic ambassador for the team and it's a tremendous honor for him to win his 100th cap," Robinson said. "It's well-deserved and I'm looking forward to seeing him perform at the weekend."

Meanwhile, Wales have made two changes for Sunday's clash, dropping lock Luke Charteris and wing Tom James for Jonathan Thomas and Leigh Halfpenny.

Coach Warren Gatland kept Alun-Wyn Jones in the side despite the yellow card that led to last weekend's opening loss to England.

"Jonathan brings over 50 caps of experience to the tight five and offers us some extra mobility around the field," Gatland said. "Leigh is a recognised right wing who offers us an extra kicking option and his return to full fitness after limited training in the run up to the England game allows his selection."

Scotland
Chris Paterson, Thom Evans, Sean Lamont, Graeme Morrison, Rory Lamont, Dan Parks, Chris Cusiter; Alasdair Dickinson, Ross Ford, Euan Murray, Nathan Hines, Alastair Kellock, Kelly Brown, Johnnie Beattie, John Barclay.

Reserves: Scott Lawson, Allan Jacobsen, Richie Gray, Alan MacDonald, Mike Blair, Phil Godman, Max Evans.
Wales: Lee Byrne, Leigh Halfpenny, James Hook, Jamie Roberts, Shane Williams, Stephen Jones, Gareth Cooper; Paul James, Gareth Williams, Adam Rhys Jones, Jonathan Thomas, Alun-Wyn Jones, Andy Powell, Martyn Williams, Ryan Jones.

Reserves: Huw Bennett, Gethin Jenkins, Bradley Davies, Sam Warburton, Richard Rees, Andrew Bishop, Tom Shanklin.

- AP