Wales change both props for third Test

Two new starting props will try to help Wales finish their tour of New Zealand on a winning note.

Rob Evans and Tomas Francis are promoted from the reserves bench for the third Test in Dunedin in the only changes from the starting XV who lost 36-22 in Wellington last Saturday.

Evans replaces loosehead veteran Gethin Jenkins, who has returned home with a calf injury.

Francis swaps with Samson Lee, who is bench cover along with the called-up Aaron Jarvis.

The only other bench change is the recall of Jake Ball as lock cover in place of the injured Bradley Davies (knee).

Centre Jamie Roberts has been retained despite suffering a head knock in the opening minute of the second Test. He admits his clash with Malakai Fekitoa affected his performance in Wellington.

Coach Warren Gatland hopes his team’s upward curve continues on a tour which has comprised double-digit losses in the two Tests and a 40-7 midweek humbling from the Chiefs.

“We improved going into the second test and fought to the end and this weekend we have to have the belief and confidence that we can take the victory,” he said.

“Playing under the roof in Dunedin will be a great atmosphere and a quick track, and we need to take our game to the All Blacks.”

Flanker Sam Warburton will become the 10th player in rugby history to play 50 Tests as a captain.

He has led Wales 47 times and the British and Irish Lions twice.

Wales: Rhys Patchell, Liam Williams, Jonathan Davies, Jamie Roberts, Hallam Amos, Dan Biggar, Rhys Webb, Taulupe Faletau, Sam Warburton (capt), Ross Moriarty, Alun Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Tomas Francis, Ken Owens, Rob Evans. Reserves: Scott Baldwin, Aaron Jarvis, Samson Lee, Jake Ball, Ellis Jenkins, Gareth Davies, Rhys Priestland, Scott Williams.