Luke Charteris has been ruled out of the Wales side for their Six Nations clash with France because of a knee injury.

Charteris started the first two games of the competition in the second row but will not feature on Friday as Wales aim to deal France their first loss of the tournament at the Principality Stadium.

Bradley Davies comes into the team in place of Charteris in one of three changes made by Wales head coach Warren Gatland.

Wing Alex Cuthbert replaces Tom James, while flanker Dan Lydiate will start ahead of Justin Tipuric - who drops to the bench - in the back row.

Centre Jonathan Davies will start in Cardiff despite missing Clermont Auvergne's Top 14 win at Castres last weekend because of a groin issue.

Scarlets lock Jake Ball could make his first appearance of the tournament having been named in the 23-man matchday squad.

"We have made a couple of changes, one injury enforced with Luke missing out with a knee injury, but Bradley deserves a starting spot as well so it's a good opportunity for him," Gatland said.

"We have made two other personnel changes with Alex and Dan coming into the starting team. They have trained well and will suit the game France will potentially bring as well.

"It's set to be another huge Six Nations weekend, France come to Cardiff unbeaten in the campaign so far and impressing under Guy [Noves].

"We are looking to continue our unbeaten run and will be looking for another step up after the victory over Scotland."

Wales team to play France: Liam Williams, Alex Cuthbert, Jonathan Davies, Jamie Roberts, George North, Dan Biggar, Gareth Davies; Rob Evans, Scott Baldwin, Samson Lee, Bradley Davies, Alun Wyn Jones, Dan Lydiate, Sam Warburton (captain), Taulupe Faletau.

Replacements:  Ken Owens, Gethin Jenkins, Tomas Francis, Jake Ball, Justin Tipuric, Lloyd Williams, Rhys Priestland, Gareth Anscombe.