Davies set for timely return

Jonathan Davies could be in line for a timely return to Wales colours when head coach Warren Gatland names his side to face world champions New Zealand on Tuesday.

The Scarlets centre was ruled out of the defeats to Argentina and Samoa due to a groin injury, and his attacking threat was sorely missed as toothless Wales managed just one interception try and one linebreak from the two games.

Assistant coach Shaun Edwards said: "Jonathan is key to our defensive system and he is a massive player for us, and we hope he comes through training and plays in the game."

He continued: "Ashley (Beck) scored a great try against Samoa but you always want your most experienced players available when you are playing against the All Blacks."

Davies' Scarlets colleague Matthew Rees could also be in line to make the starting line-up as he returns to training after a calf injury.

The pair's return is a rare glimmer of light on the injury front for Wales.

Adam Jones, Dan Lydiate, Alun Wyn Jones and Josh Turbull have already been ruled out of the series, while Richard Hibbard, Dan Biggar and Ian Evans all picked up injuries against Samoa.

Hooker Hibbard is unlikely to feature again during the series due to a shoulder injury, but Wales remain hopeful his Ospreys colleagues Biggar (shoulder) and Evans (knee) will play some part in the final two fixtures.