Wales’ preparations for their key clash with South Africa on Saturday have been handed a boost with the news that both Taulupe Faletau and Gethin Jenkins are in line for a return.
No.8 Faletau made his return from injury for Bath last weekend, playing 55 minutes in their victory over Bristol and has been training with Wales this week.
The 2016 RBS 6 Nations runners-up are looking to end their autumn on a high after defeat to Australia and successive narrow wins over Argentina and Japan.
And 2013 British & Irish Lion Faletau – who sustained the knee injury in the first game of the season – is a big boost to their plans.
“Taulupe is just a ridiculously good player – watching him in training it doesn’t look he’s been out,” said skills coach Neil Jenkins.
“He’s a world-class No.8, one of the best on the planet and to have him back training and available is great news for he’s a fantastic addition to the squad.”
Three-time Lion Jenkins is also in line for a return after shaking off a shoulder injury that ruled him out of the Japan clash.
The loosehead prop captained his country in their first two clashes of the autumn and Jenkins is looking forward to having his namesake’s experience back in the fold when they name their team on Thursday.
“Gethin’s trained, he’s a smart operator,” he added.
“He’s not getting any younger, but he certainly knows what it’s all about to play at this level and he looks in good shape.”
