George North is handed Welsh debut
Welsh coach Warren Gatland has handed George North his debut for the Test match with South Africa at Cardiff on Saturday 13 November.
The Scarlets winger replaces Will Harries and makes up a back three with the British and Irish Lions duo of Shane Williams and Lee Byrne.
The 18-year-old’s selection is seen as a risk, especially since the back has only just returned to the Scarlets after fracturing his ankle.
Speaking at a press conference, Gatland said, "We know this is a bold selection, but we have always tried to look at the bigger picture and George, today, is the bigger picture, and at 6ft 4ins and 16st 7lbs he gives us quite a canvas to work with."
The Welsh coach insisted the winger should just play his natural game.
"There is no pressure on him, he just needs to go out and enjoy the experience of winning his first cap. He has got all the attributes to be a quality player, said Gatland.
The Welsh coach has been in regular contact with Scarlets coach Nigel Davies, who has told Gatland that the wing is ready to make the step up to international rugby.
However, the Scarlet’s coach did not want to risk the player until he trained for his club first, and his injury ruled him out of the 16-25 Test defeat to Australia last week.
"I've spoken to Nigel [Davies] down at the Scarlets and [he] was saying potentially he is something special. If he hadn't have picked up the injury he might have played last week,” added Gatland.
The New Zealander believes that North has the attributes to become an important Welsh player and that a good performance could cement his place in the team.
"He's big, he's quick. He is very skilled. He's played a lot of rugby in the centres as well. It's a good opportunity for him," said Gatland.
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