The non-cap clash means that 33-year-old Forster must still wait for that elusive first Test match appearance, but his big breakthrough is now closer than ever before.

And that opportunity could arrive when he travels to Argentina and South Africa next month as part of former Dragons coach Ruddocks Wales tour squad.

I obviously know Jason very well from regional level, and he has a lot to offer, said Ruddock.

It is up to him now to seize his chance and become an important part of this squad.

Ruddock, for whom next weeks game will be his first in charge since replacing New Zealander Steve Hansen as Wales boss, has made eight changes and one positional switch from the side that defeated RBS 6 Nations opponents Italy on March 27.

Both centres from that match - Mark Taylor and Iestyn Harris - have missed out on the current squad through injury and are replaced by Sonny Parker and Gavin Henson.

And two more enforced changes come at half-back, with injured pair Stephen Jones and Gareth Cooper replaced by a new partnership of Ceri Sweeney and Dwayne Peel.

In the front row, Celtic Warriors hooker Mefin Davies takes over from Robin McBryde, while prop Adam Jones and lock Brent Cockbain both return following injuries.

Michael Owen, meanwhile, moves from lock to number eight, packing down alongside Forster and skipper Colin Charvis.

Leicester prop Darren Morris, recalled to Wales duties earlier this week following more than two years out of Test rugby, is among the replacements.

There are a few enforced changes due to injury, but the look of the squad and the side hasnt really changed, added Ruddock.

I havent come into this job to rip it all up and start again. We have a strong group of players here which I want to keep together.

The injuries now mean that some of the players who have been on the fringes of the squad will be given their chance to shine and to prove what they can do.

We are looking for big performances from each individual and as a unit against the Barbarians, as we prepare for a tough tour to Argentina and South Africa.