Williams back for Wales

Martyn Williams has made a shock return to international rugby and been named in Wales' 28-man squad for the RBS 6 Nations Championship.

Williams, 32, announced his retirement just three months ago after Wales lost to Fiji and were knocked out in the group stages of the World Cup.

Only a week ago, Williams was quoted as saying he had no desire to add to his 76 Test caps, but new coach Warren Gatland has persuaded the Cardiff Blues flanker to perform a surprise U-turn.

Robin Sowden-Taylor, 25, is seen as Williams' eventual replacement but cannot currently command a regular place in the Blues side.

Gatland said: "We feel he (Williams) still has a lot to offer and we are delighted he has accepted the invitation to play for his country again."

Ryan Jones will captain the side after missing the World Cup with a shoulder injury.

Gatland also dropped a hint that Dwayne Peel is under major pressure from Mike Phillips to keep hold of the scrum-half jersey after explaining he was overlooked for the captaincy because of the competition for places.

Stephen Jones was not considered for the same reason, indicating James Hook is being seriously considered as the starting fly-half.

There is no place for Newport Gwent Dragons loose forward Colin Charvis or full-back Morgan Stoddart, who made a try-scoring debut against the Springboks.