Wales wing George North is set to be ruled out of Saturday's Test against the Springboks in Cardiff, with Liam Williams taking his place on the wing.

North was forced off the field during Wales' 34-16 defeat to the All Blacks last weekend after suffering a blow to the head and coach Warren Gatland expects to be without his services against the Boks at the Millennium Stadium.

Gatland has delayed naming his side by 48 hours to give him every opportunity to recover. Should he fail to recover in time, the in-form Williams will find his way back into the side after impressing against Fiji.

Leigh Halfpenny (shoulder) and Rhys Webb (groin) are also struggling to shake off knocks, but are expected to be among the starting XV when the side is announced on Thursday.

Wales are also confident that Gethin Jenkins has recovered sufficiently from a hamstring strain to take his place in the front row. With Paul James returning to club duty at Bath and young Nicky Smith ruled out with a chest injury, Jenkins will offer some much-needed experience in the scrumming department.

Photo: Ben Evans/Huw Evans Agency