Williams replaces Halfpenny against Ireland

Leigh Halfpenny last started for Wales against Canada in November 2021

Liam Williams will start at full-back for Wales in Saturday's Six Nations opener against Ireland in Cardiff after injury ruled out Leigh Halfpenny.

Cardiff's Williams, who had not been included in the original matchday squad, will wear the number 15 jersey.

Wales assistant coach Jonathan Humphreys insisted Williams was "good to go".

It is the third time in recent months that Scarlets' Halfpenny, 34, has been a late withdrawal from the Wales team.

He was named by Wayne Pivac to face both New Zealand and Australia last autumn - having made his Test return against Georgia as a replacement - only to pull out of both games shortly before kick-off.

"Unfortunately, Leigh had a back spasm this morning (Thursday) and Liam will be playing," explained Humphreys.

"It's more disappointing for [Leigh] as a person. He's had a couple of these recently.

"He's an unbelievable professional and an unbelievable person. He's got to pick himself up again. You feel for him that he's got to pull out at this late stage again."

More to follow.

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