That's what I'd go for too. Whilst Stoddart (always thought it was StoddarD!) is a great offensive player, he has his weaknesses as Draggs pointed out above. However, by that reasoning Shane Williams would never have gotten his chance. Henry left him out for a few seasons because of his weaknesses in defense, but he's more than made up for any weaknesses with his attacking game. The problem is that Stoddart simply doesn't seem to know how to tackle properly, something at least Shane has always done well. Stoddart simply puts his body on the line to stop a player, and is one of reasons why he's had so many injuries in his short career to date. I'll leave that decision to Gatland (and Edwards), but Roberts on the wing makes alot of sense imo.

 

Emagine being a defender and on every attacking move Wales had Hook and Davies in midfield with Byrne and one of Shane or Roberts running from deep ready to take the ball! That sounds like a nightmare to defend against imo.

 

One more thing, please no Hook at fb, it's his worst position by far. I'd prefer to see Priestland start at fb before Hook, at least he can run decent running angles from deep! Byrne will start though, I see no reason why not.

 

Edit: Prydie no longer called up either. Halfpenny expected to be back within two weeks, so no need.