Rhys Priestland will miss Saturday's semifinal against France. Photo / Getty Images
Injured first five-eighth Rhys Priestland has been ruled out of the Wales lineup for the World Cup semifinals, with utility James Hook recalled at No. 10 to play France on Saturday.
Hook's return is the only change to the starting XV announced today by Wales coach Warren Gatland.
Priestland injured his shoulder in the 22-10 quarterfinal win over Ireland, when he was selected to start at flyhalf in favor of Hook and 102-test veteran Stephen Jones.
Hooks return to the starting lineup allowed Jones to rejoin the reserves bench for the semifinals.
Priestland has been instrumental in the revival of the Welsh running game, directing a young backline from No. 10. But he has been in doubt all week after being seen in the post-match period with his arm in a sling.
Hook, who missed two matches during the pool stage with an injured shoulder, said he was all set to step in.
The only other injury concern for Wales was over captain Sam Warburton with a groin strain, but the 23-year-old flanker was named to start against the French.
Wales is back into the World Cup semifinals for the first time since the inaugural tournament in 1987.
Wales side: Leigh Halfpenny, George North, Jonathan Davies, Jamie Roberts, Shane Williams, James Hook, Mike Phillips; Toby Faletau, Sam Warburton (captain), Dan Lydiate, Alun Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Adam Jones, Huw Bennett, Gethin Jenkins. Reserves: Lloyd Burns, Paul James, Bradley Davies, Ryan Jones, Lloyd Williams, Stephen Jones, Scott Williams.
- AP
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