Rugby: Injured Thomas misses Wales clash with Japan

Jonathan Thomas has been forced out of the World Cup match against Japan because of a finger injury. Photo / Reuters

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CARDIFF - Wales loose forward forward Jonathan Thomas has been forced to pull out of the rugby World Cup pool B match against Japan at the Millennium Stadium here tomorrow (7am, NZT) because of a finger injury.

Thomas, who scored a try in his team's 32-20 loss to Australia on Saturday, will be replaced by Martyn Williams.

"We have consulted specialist advice about Jon's injury and reached the conclusion that it would be wrong to risk him tomorrow," Wales coach Gareth Jenkins said

"We are blessed with a wealth of strength in our back row and are able to call on two former British Lions to come into the matchday squad in Martyn and Michael Owen.

"Michael comes onto the bench to cover both the back and second row and Colin Charvis switches flanks with Martyn coming into the team on the openside."

- AFP