WALES coach Rob Howley has labelled Cory Hill as one of the finds of the autumn and has handed the Newport Gwent Dragons lock the responsibility of calling the lineouts on his first Test start.

The 24-year-old will wear 4 on his back against Japan at Principality Stadium on Saturday and will be paired with Lions ace Alun Wyn Jones.

Hill was added to the Wales squad after impressing in training following a call-up to cover for injuries and made a surprise international debut off the bench in the 32-8 loss to Australia.

The Dragons forward was an unused replacement in last week’s win against Argentina but gets the nod for the Brave Blossoms, with added duties in front of a sell-out crowd.

“He’s calling the lineouts so there is a responsibility in that department in getting our set piece right,” said Howley.

“The old adage is the forwards decide who wins the game and the backs decide by how many and I was really pleased with our set piece against Argentina.

“Cory has added value in that department over the last couple of weeks and has certainly been a find for us, there’s no doubt about that.

“We are looking forward to his first game and to play alongside one of the world’s best locks, what a story to tell in future years.

“We are looking forward to what Cory can bring individually and collectively in adding to our pack.”

Hill’s inclusion is one of 10 changes but Howley’s side is packed with experience and the boss has called on the likes of Jamie Roberts, Dan Lydiate and Alex Cuthbert to give him a selection headache for South Africa.

“It is an opportunity for some of the players to put their hands up after a disappointing performance against Australia,” said the former scrum-half.