Jenkins starts Wales' first home game of Six Nations

Exeter Chiefs' match captain Dafydd Jenkins has been named to start Wales' first home game of the 2026 Guinness Six Nations.

The Welshman retains his spot in the second row alongside Adam Beard whilst former Chief, centre Joe Hawkins is called into the starting XV for the second round match against France at the Principality Stadium.

Hooker Dewi Lake captains the side from a new front row with Rhys Carre and Tomas Francis.

Head coach Steve Tandy said: “There are a few changes for this week. A lot of it is based on who we are playing and then Olly Cracknell has done a full training week this week and also played really well in the autumn.

“We were bitterly disappointed with the performance last week. We've addressed it in meetings. The boys were open and honest around the fact that we didn't put ourselves on the game.

"We felt we played into England's hands a little bit and obviously the discipline was hugely disappointing. It's a massive lesson for us. It's something we need to correct and put more of our game out on the field on Sunday.”