Originally selected among the replacements for the final game in the Vodafone Summer Series, the 24-year-old will make his debut 36 years on from when his father won the first of his then record 72 caps. His dad, Ieuan Evans, captained Wales, went on three tours with the British & Irish Lions and was more recently chair of the Welsh Rugby Union.
As well as a change at full back, Warren Gatland has also pulled Dan Biggar out of the team. His place will be taken by Sam Costelow, with Tom Rogers taking the place on the bench vacated by Evans’ elevation into the starting XV.
“Dan has had an irritation in his back and Liam has a tight hamstring. So, we’ve decided to give Sam Costelow another chance at outside half and brought in Cai Evans at full back,” said Gatland.
“Both Dan and Liam could have played if we pushed them. If it had been a World Cup semi-final then they would have started. It’s using a bit of adversity as a positive. I’m excited for Sam, and we are dealing with something that could be thrown at us at the World Cup.
“We are confident that all the players carrying injuries will be fit and available in time for the first game at the World Cup against Fiji,” added Gatland.
Wales kick-off their Pool C campaign against the Fijians in Bordeaux on Sunday 10 September.
