The good news of Jones’ return to the second row is tempered by the knowledge that another former captain, Matthew Rees, failed a fitness test and will miss the clash.

As a result of Rees’ absence and backup Huw Bennett’s calf strain, fellow Scarlets hooker Ken Owens will start for the first time in the front row having won his previous two caps as a replacement.

North being passed fit – the flying Scarlets wing was withdrawn at half-time in the 27-13 win against Scotland – allows Gatland to name an unchanged backline.

And the Kiwi boss said: “A fit again Alun Wyn Jones is selected based on his Rugby World Cup form and his experience as an international lock.

“He gave us a selection dilemma but it has been a great problem to have and, whilst Ryan Jones is particularly unlucky to miss out on this occasion, this is just that kind of competition for places we have been striving for.

“Ken Owens has been waiting patiently for his chance and whilst injuries elsewhere have meant he gets his opportunity this weekend we are expecting him to take it.”

WALES:
15. Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues)
14. Alex Cuthbert (Cardiff Blues)
13. Jonathan Davies (Scarlets)
12. Jamie Roberts (Cardiff Blues)
11. George North (Scarlets)
10. Rhys Priestland (Scarlets)
9. Michael Phillips (Bayonne)
1. Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues)
2. Ken Owens (Scarlets)
3. Adam Jones (Ospreys)
4. Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys)
5. Ian Evans (Ospreys)
6. Dan Lydiate (Newport Gwent Dragons)
7. Sam Warburton (Cardiff Blues)
8. Toby Faletau (Newport Gwent Dragons)

REPLACEMENTS:
16. Richard Hibbard (Ospreys)
17. Paul James (Ospreys)
18. Ryan Jones (Ospreys)
19. Justin Tipuric (Ospreys)
20. Lloyd Williams (Cardiff Blues)
21. James Hook (Perpignan)
22. Scott Williams (Scarlets)