Leigh Halfpenny has been ruled out of Wales' Six Nations opener against Ireland after suffering a back spasm on Thursday morning.
The full-back will be replaced by Liam Williams, who steps in to the starting side having played just 180 minutes of rugby this season. Halfpenny had been in line for his first start in 19 months after a long-term injury.
However, once again, Halfpenny had been robbed of that elusive first start since suffering a knee injury against Canada in July 2021.
This is the third time Halfpenny has pulled out of the starting side, having been forced to withdraw from the sides to face New Zealand and Australia during the autumn.
Warren Gatland had opted to name Halfpenny despite carrying a minor hip knock given the lack of minutes full-back rival Williams has managed this season. However, after naming his team to face Ireland on Tuesday, Gatland confirmed that both had been available for selection.
Forwards coach Jonathan Humphreys said: "Unfortunately, Leigh had a back spasm this morning and Liam will be playing. I think it's more disappointing for him as a person. He's had a couple of these recently. He's an unbelievable professional and an unbelievable person. He's got to pick himself up again. You feel for him that he's got to pull out at this late stage again.
"Liam is good to go."
Ireland have suffered a blow of their own, with Lions prop Tadhg Furlong ruled out. Full Ireland team news is here.
Win a Wales rugby shirt for the Six Nations below. You can also access it here.
Read more:
Today's rugby news as Ireland dismiss Gatland's claim and Wales team meeting footage emerges
WRU bosses admit warning signs were ignored during Senedd grilling
Wayne Pivac's attempt to convince Tadhg Beirne to play for Wales instead of Ireland
