Peel called up for Wales' Six Nations rugby clash with France

Sale scrum-half Dwayne Peel has been called into the Wales squad for Friday's Six Nations clash against France at the Millennium Stadium.

The 28-year-old has recovered from a groin injury and convinced Wales coach Warren Gatland that he is ready to feature in the France match by playing 80 minutes of Sale's 19-10 defeat against Leeds on Friday.

The 72-times capped number nine replaces Scarlets' half-back Martin Roberts, who has been released from the squad, for the meeting with the French, who are unbeaten so far having beaten Scotland 18-9 and then humbled Grand Slam winners Ireland 33-10.

Gatland believes Peel, who suffered his injury in Sale's European Cup defeat at Cardiff Blues last month, will give his squad some much-needed experience.

"It was important for us to see Dwayne come through 80 minutes of rugby," Gatland said. "But, once he proved his fitness, it's obvious that a player of his experience and talents would provide a welcome boost to any squad."

However, Richie Rees impressed in both Wales' defeat against England at Twickenham and the dramatic win over Scotland in Cardiff.

He is likely to be named in Gatland's starting line-up, with Peel probably set for a place on the bench.