Gatland to ring changes (From Haringey Independent)

Gatland to ring changes

5:07pm Monday 15th March 2010 in

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Wales coach Warren Gatland has pledged to make changes for his team's RBS 6 Nations finale against Italy on Saturday.

Fit-again British and Irish Lions trio Mike Phillips, Gethin Jenkins and Ryan Jones all look set to gain recalls.

But Gatland might not stop there after he admitted he is "hurting" following Wales' tame 27-12 loss to Triple Crown-chasing Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

Wales can now finish no higher than fourth, meaning that on nine occasions in 11 Six Nations seasons they will not secure a top-three place.

Gatland's squad reported back for duty at lunchtime, and they can expect some tough days in the build-up to Italy's Millennium Stadium visit.

"There will be a few changes," said Gatland, who must also consider whether to hand young prospects like Ospreys fly-half Dan Biggar and Cardiff Blues flanker Sam Warburton their Six Nations chance.

"We need to make sure we finish this campaign on a real high. We need to perform.

"I've had a couple of bad days. I don't take defeat easily or performances that I don't think are acceptable."

Gatland is due to announce his team for the Azzurri clash on Tuesday afternoon.