As Wales prepare to kick off the 2025 Six Nations away to France, Warren Gatland will hope for an unlikley repeat of 2019 Welsh heroics in Paris.

In the front row, props Evan Lloyd and Henry Thomas will make their first starts for Wales in the cauldron of the Stade de France. On the wing, Tom Rogers will earn his sixth cap after last featuring for Wales in their 2023 World Cup warm-up games.

Aaron Wainwright is set to fill the No. 8 spot, while James Botham and Jac Morgan retain their positions on the flanks from the autumn series. Gatland disclosed that Botham was always his top pick for the six shirt following his impressive autumn form.

Taulupe Faletau will play no part in Wales' Six Nations opener against France in Paris. Josh Adams and Liam Williams make make their Test return for the Six Nations curtain-raiser, having missed large chunks of 2024. But No. 8 Faletau, who hasn't played for Wales since 2023, is not involved.

Gareth, Lauren and Cennydd discuss Warren Gatland’s team for the opening game in France. Read more

Fabien Galthie's in-form France start this year's Six Nations by hosting struggling Wales on Friday with the head coach fully aware of the challenge of winning the title. Wales' hopes of a first win over France since 2019 will be hindered by the presence of Olympic gold medallist Dupont.

Wales' 'strongest' side: Liam Williams; Josh Adams, Joe Roberts, Owen Watkin, Tom Rogers; Ben Thomas, Tomos Williams; Gareth Thomas, Elliot Dee, Keiron Assiratti, Dafydd Jenkins, Will Rowlands, Aaron Wainwright, Jac Morgan, Taulupe Faletau.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has highlighted what could backfire for France when the sides meet in Friday's Six Nations opener in Paris.