WALES plan to take full advantage if South Africa's lukewarm attitude to this summer's rugby Test in Cardiff sees them send an under-strength line-up to the Millennium Stadium.

The match on June 5 is sandwiched between the Super 14 final on May 29 and the Springboks' proposed clash with France on June 12, leading their coach Peter de Villiers to declare his intention to call on no more than two players from each of the country's five franchises.

In addition, De Villiers plans to give South Africa's overseas-based players a rare chance in international colours.

He has made clear his view that the Tri-Nations campaign should be given top priority in a busy pre-World Cup year that will see the world champions play 14 Tests.

But that could present Warren Gatland's side with the chance to improve a miserable Wales record against the Boks of just one win in 23 matches over 104 years.

"It is a good opportunity for Warren and his players," said Welsh Rugby Union chairman David Pickering.

"We fully expect the South Africa side to be a strong one. In fact, there is no such thing as a weak Springbok team.

"One thing is sure — our attitude will be spot on.

"The match will be a forerunner to our trip to New Zealand and Warren will want to make sure his players give a good account of themselves."

The match is being held to mark the 10-season anniversary of the Millennium Stadium's opening game, which famously saw Wales claim their one and only win over South Africa, with Mark Taylor scoring the historic first try at the venue.

Pickering, then team manager of the side coached by Graham Henry, remembers the encounter as if it were yesterday.

"It was a fantastic day, one of my most memorable in rugby," he said.

"Beating South Africa had been beyond great Welsh sides in the past, but our performance that day was outstanding.

"Every player stood up to be counted; every player did himself proud.

"If we could beat them again, it would be special."

MARK ORDERS