North, Lee on course to return

Wales duo George North and Samson Lee are on track to return to Six Nations action against France in Paris next week.

Northampton wing North was rested for last Sunday's 26-23 victory over Scotland, after taking two heavy blows to his head during the England game nine days previously.

Prop Lee was concussed in the defeat against England and was replaced by Ospreys tighthead Aaron Jarvis in Edinburgh.

But Wales head coach Warren Gatland should be able to select from full strength when he names his starting line-up next Tuesday.

North is expected to return in the back three, and it could be that his fellow British and Irish Lion Alex Cuthbert makes way, given Liam Williams' impressive display against Scotland and consistently outstanding form this season.

"A lot of the players have gone back to the regions to play, which gives them an opportunity for them to show what they can do," Wales assistant coach and forwards specialist Robin McBryde said on Friday.

"There is an element of crossing fingers and hoping we don't get injuries.

"But from their point of view, especially the boys who haven't been involved as much, they want to sharpen their tools, and there is no better place to do that than playing for their regions.

"We are in a fortunate position. We're in the best shape that we ever have been in after the first two [Six Nations] games.

"It's a healthy camp, and hopefully we can reap the benefits of the squad competition during the campaign."

Agence France-Presse