Head coach Gatland has named an experienced side with Dragons tyro Wainwright, 21, starting on the flank, while Wyn Jones begins at loosehead prop.
Gwent-born and bred Wainwright only made his Test debut in Argentina last June, but he now has 12 caps and has impressed the Wales management. Despite his swift rise to prominence with Wales, he still finds time to help coach the team that he credits with inspiring his career: Whitehead RFC.
“Aaron is just a player that’s continued to improve,” said Gatland. “He’s incredibly athletic and an intelligent rugby player. He’s very inexperienced still, but I think there’s only an upward curve for him as a player.
“I don’t think people realise how quick he is and how explosive he is. Since his first cap 12 months ago he’s just gone from strength to strength.
“There is some real competition in the back-row and that’s the way we want it. We feel there’s a nice balance.”
“With Georgia we know how strong they are up front and their scrum is a weapon,” Gatland said.
“We’ve got to be competent at scrum time. We’ve been very impressed with the way Wyn has scrummaged in training and it’s one of his strengths.
“It’s important for us and it’s been a real focus, particularly this week.”
Whilst young Wainwright will win his 13th cap, his captain Alun Wyn Jones will equal the country’s record cap holder Gethin Jenkins against Georgia when me makes his 129th appearance.
“Hopefully he comes out of Monday night’s game fit and available and, if selected as he always says, against Australia he’ll get a chance to break that record,” said Gatland on Jones.
“He’s been absolutely outstanding in his service to Welsh rugby. He’s got better with age and he’s like a good wine. He doesn’t like me talking about these sorts of things.
“He deserves all the accolades. He’s been a great servant to Welsh rugby. The pleasing thing for me is that recognition hasn’t just been in Wales. It’s been worldwide.
“People realise just want a contribution he has made to world rugby both in his performances and leadership. It’s pleasing to see someone from Wales recognised as one of the best players in his position.
“The boys had a good training session on Saturday morning. We’re really excited. We’re going to the stadium tomorrow for the captain’s run. We can’t wait for Monday night.”
