Taine Plumtree 'stoked' for housemate Blair Murray's Wales debut against Fiji

Taine Plumtree has hailed the 'pretty special' achievement of Scarlets team-mate Blair Murray in being named in the starting XV for Wales' clash with Fiji.

Murray is set to make his Wales debut in the match at the Principality Stadium after being included in Wayne Pivac's side at blindside flanker.

The back-row has been capped by Wales Under-20s, but will win his first senior cap against Fiji.

And Plumtree, who is Murray's housemate in west Wales, was quick to praise his team-mate's elevation to the international stage.

"It's pretty special," said Plumtree.

"He's been working really hard the last few years and he thoroughly deserves it," he added.

"He's a great player, he's very physical, he gets through a lot of work and he's very good over the ball as well."

"I'm stoked for him to get his opportunity. He's got a big future ahead of him."

Plumtree also believes that Murray's selection is a testament to the strength of the Scarlets academy system.

"It's great for the Scarlets region as well," he said.

"It shows that the pathway is there for young players to come through and play international rugby."

"Blair is a great example of that and I'm sure there will be many more to follow in his footsteps."

Murray is one of two Scarlets players to be handed a start by Pivac, with fly-half Rhys Patchell also included in the XV.

Wales will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to New Zealand last weekend when they take on Fiji.