Wales wing George North ruled out of New Zealand game at Millennium Stadium

Wales wing George North has been ruled out of Saturday's game with New Zealand due to a hip injury and is replaced in the starting line-up by Scarlets' Liam Williams.

North has been in good form for his country but misses the match at the Millennium Stadium with an injury picked up in training on Tuesday.
The 20-year-old has scored 11 tries in 25 Tests for a Wales side who are looking for an upturn in form after starting their autumn campaign with defeats to Argentina and Samoa.
Williams won his only Wales cap to date against the Barbarians in June and has impressed for the Scarlets this season, where he usually plays at full-back.

 

Richard Hibbard, Dan Biggar and Ian Evans had already been ruled out of the All Blacks clash after picking up injuries in the 26-19 defeat to Samoa last Friday.
Centre Jonathan Davies missed the games against the Pumas and Samoans with a groin problem but is available to face the world champions, while hooker Matthew Rees should feature after a calf injury.
Wales have not tasted victory against New Zealand since 1953 and have lost 24 consecutive games against them.

Blow

On the loss of North, Wales assistant coach Robin McBryde said: "It is a blow, we are well aware of the threat George poses with regards to his strong running, ability under the high ball, breaking tackles and his work-rate.
"There is no denying it is a blow, but we are fortunate to have someone like Liam, who has performed consistently well for the Scarlets, to fill in for him.
"The signs are that he can deal with it (the pressure of facing the All Blacks), but there is only one way to find out.
"You can prepare as much as you want, but it is not just a question for young players but for any senior international who has not faced the All Blacks, you don't know how you will react until you get in there.
"But Liam is quite grounded as an individual, he is well aware of the challenge ahead of him.
"One thing that is evident whenever he puts on the shirt for the Scarlets or for Wales is he is full of life, does not take a backward step and gives as good as he gets."
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