Wales captain Jonathan Humphreys has been forced out Saturday's Six Nations wooden spoon match against France in Paris. The 34-year-old has failed to recover from a shoulder injury and is now expected to end his international rugby career.
"I feel for him because since he has come into the side, he has been inspirational. His contribution has been outstanding," Wales team manager Alan Phillips said.
The hooker suffered a recurrence of shoulder trouble in Saturday's defeat by Ireland at Cardiff.
Wales coach Steve Hansen recalled the 34-year-old Humphreys from four years in the international wilderness following the opening defeat by Italy.
But the hooker damaged his shoulder in the defeat by England at Twickenham and subsequently missed the loss to Scotland.
Mefin Davies, who replaced him in the second half on Saturday, had a hand in both the second and third Welsh tries and will likely start on Saturday.
Bridgend hooker Gareth Williams, who broke a bone in his hand against Scotland 17 days ago, is back and likely to be on the replacements' bench.
Hansen expects centre Mark Taylor, who limped off after just 14 minutes against Ireland, to recover from the knock.
AFP