Fly-half Jones is back after six weeks out with a calf injury to win his 101st cap but, one of 11 changes from the victory over Samoa, yet Gatland has been quick to warn against complacency.

After an opening-game defeat to South Africa, Gatland has told his troops to underestimate Namibia at their peril.

“On the back of two tough and intensely physical matches we have been able to make some changes to the squad, but also bring a lot of experience into the side at the same time,” said Gatland.

“This is the Rugby World Cup and every performance counts, we showed great heart and courage last week to grind out a win and this week we need to do similar, but also improve and take that next step towards qualification from this incredibly tough group.

“They will be hurting after their loss to South Africa, but we will be concentrating on ourselves and our own performance.”

Jones is one of three hugely-experienced returning names with namesake and former skipper Ryan Jones also back from a calf injury and Gethin Jenkins starting his first game in nine months following toe surgery.

British and Irish Lions Shane Williams, Jamie Roberts, Mike Phillips and Adam Jones are all rested while fellow Lion Lee Byrne replaces James Hook (shoulder injury) at full-back.

And Gatland believes the return of his ultra experienced trio – who have 230 caps between them – will stand Wales in good stead.

“Stephen, Ryan and Gethin in particular bring a wealth of experience but we have some previously established combinations elsewhere in the side as well, in the second row, the midfield and at halfback, so we are excited and looking for this side to do well against Namibia,” he said.