Wales pitch rookies in against Pumas

BUENOS AIRES - Wales coach Gareth Jenkins has picked two uncapped players from his young touring squad to start the first test against Argentina in the Patagonian city of Puerto Madryn tomorrow.

Ospreys pair Ian Evans and Alun Wyn Jones will make their debuts in the first team selection of Jenkins' reign as Wales head coach.

On the bench, three more Welshmen could win their first caps if called on during the game.

They are Ospreys five-eighths James Hook and hooker Richard Hibbard and Newport Gwent Dragons prop Rhys Thomas.

Cardiff Blues centre Jamie Robinson will win his 14th cap after spending three seasons in the international wilderness through injury, while Llanelli Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees makes only his second appearance for his country.

Evans makes his debut partnering the most senior player in the team, 30-year-old Ian Gough in the second row, with his regional team colleague Jones joining a back row consisting of Llanelli Scarlets pair Gavin Thomas and Alix Popham.

Ospreys prop Adam Jones joins Rees and his club and country captain Duncan Jones in the front row.

Wales have beaten the Pumas on six occasions and lost twice. Tomorrow's test will be the first to be played in the Welsh-speaking Puerto Madryn and Jenkins said his players had been made to feel at home in Patagonia.

"We are approaching Sunday in a positive frame of mind, with a young, determined side who realise that they have a major opportunity to achieve something special on an historic day for Welsh rugby," Jenkins said.

Wales and Argentina meet for a second test in Buenos Aires on June 17.

- REUTERS