Gatland: Everyone under the microscope

Grand Slam heroes - captain Ryan Jones and record try-scorer Shane Williams - were among those players who came under Gatland's selection microscope before he named the same team beaten by world champions South Africa 10 days ago.

He said: "All the places were up for selection. The message we are sending out is it doesn't matter who you are, you've got to perform. There is no guaranteed selection week in, week out."

He added: "There were some positions we debated heavily - wing, nines and 10s, the make-up of the bench and the loose forwards.

"I've spoken to Ryan. In terms of the Canada game last week, we talked about two or three high balls and just a little bit more accuracy.

"There was no question about his work-rate against South Africa. We were pleased with what he did.

"It's how people respond, isn't it? You want them to respond with a performance, by doing their talking on the field."

Gatland faced a choice of two from three on the wing - Williams, Mark Jones or 19-year-old Cardiff Blues sensation Leigh Halfpenny.

And Gatland revealed he had no hesitation throwing Halfpenny into battle against the All Blacks on Saturday, adding: "Given the performances in the first two games, he was the pick of the three wings. He deserved to be selected for this game.

"He scored a couple of great tries against Canada, particularly his first one. He can also kick goals as well, if we need it."