Rugby Union: Henry rings changes in the Welsh attack

THE WALES coach Graham Henry has made changes at centre to his side for the Test against the United States in Cardiff on Monday.

Newport's new recruit Andy Marinos links up with Leigh Davies, but Henry continues with the experiment of playing the Northampton centre Allan Bateman on the wing, despite the player saying he loathes it there.

Jason Jones-Hughes could discover his World Cup fate as early as today when four International Rugby Board members will link up by telephone to decide if his appeal to join the Welsh squad should be held within the next few days.

The Australians have blocked his switch to Wales, after he was named in Henry's 30-man squad two months ago, because he has played for the Australian Barbarians. Jones-Hughes has appealed against the decision, but all World Cup squads have to be named for accreditation purposes by 1 September.

Ireland's preparations for the World Cup begin when they face in-form Argentina in a friendly at Lansdowne Road on Saturday.

The Ireland manager Donal Lenihan, who has named an almost full-strength side, said he was under no illusions about the threat posed by the Pumas.

"We were very impressed with the physical nature of their game against Scotland. Their forwards were very strong in the set-piece, defensively they were very well organised," Lenihan said.

Dion O'Cuinnegain, who recently returned from Manchester Sale to play for Ballymena and the European Cup champions, Ulster, will lead the team.

Teams, Digest, page 25