Australia fly-half James O’Connor has been named in a Queensland Reds side who have 14 players with Super Rugby experience and are playing against a national team for the first time in 20 years.
Gatland says he wanted to give everybody a chance to play on tour.
“We said that we want the players that have come out here on tour to have an involvement whether that is starting or in the 23,” said Gatland.
“That was always the plan. Unfortunately a few players miss out due to injury, but this game against the Queensland Reds gives a number of others an opportunity to go out and put in a performance.
“I’ve been pleased with the growth we’ve seen in the squad over the last three or four weeks and that growth will continue.
“We’re expecting a good challenge from the Reds on Friday and know they will be up for this fixture.”
Queensland Reds: Jock Campbell (capt); Floyd Aubrey, Tim Ryan, Dre Pakeho, Mac Grealy; James O’Connor, Louis Werchon; Sef Fa’agase, Richie Asiata, Jeffrey Toomaga-Allen, Connor Vest, Ryan Smith, Seru Uru, John Bryant, Joe Brial.
Replacements: George Blake, Matt Gibbon, Massimo De Lutiis, Josh Canham, Connor Anderson, Will Cartwright, Mason Gordon, Lachie Anderson.
Wales: Cameron Winnett; Rio Dyer, Nick Tompkins, Eddie James, Regan Grace; Sam Costelow, Gareth Davies; Kemsley Mathias, Evan Lloyd, Archie Griffin, Matthew Screech, Cory Hill (capt), Christ Tshiunza, Taine Plumtree, Mackenzie Martin.
Replacements: Efan Daniel, Corey Domachowski, Harri O’Connor, Dafydd Jenkins, Tommy Reffell, Kieran Hardy, Ben Thomas, Mason Grady.
