DAFFYD James admits he's seen the highs and lows during his rugby career, from being chosen for the British Lions to being dropped from the Welsh teams.

But now the vastly experienced winger is back in the starting line-up against Japan in tomorrow's World Cup tie at the Millennium Stadium, his first appearance in the 2007 tournament.

That means he will be just two appearances short of the 50 mark reached by Gethin Jenkins against Australia and that Shane Williams will hit against Japan.

"I've never played against them, so it's a first for me and my first game in the World Cup," he said.

"It's been a bit frustrating not being in the 22 and it's hard to remain focused, but it's part of the job and I'm excited about it and looking forward to it.

"It's a great opportunity to get back on track. We've been a bit slow having the opportunity to get hold of the game, though Japan are a bit of an unknown quantity.

"I've had a couple of knocks in my time with peaks and troughs, but it's a great opportunity for me now and I'm delighted to be selected.

"It's important for professional rugby players to set targets and that's what I've done. Being involved in the best competition in the rugby calendar is great and I'd like to get to 50 caps, there's a lot of rugby left in me yet."

James did not want to get involved in coach Gareth Jenkins' attack on the Press, though he didn't actually back him either.

"I'm here to do a job which is to play for Wales, I can't give opinions on that, you're talking to the wrong man," he said.

"But the Welsh fans are a passionate group of people and if we get a good win the attitude will change.

"Obviously it was disappointing we didn't win against Australia because it was a great opportunity to top the group, but it wasn't to be. But we've still got a lot of rugby left in the group against Japan and Fiji."

Colin Charvis tomorrow wins his 92nd cap, making him Wales' joint most capped forward with Gareth Llewellyn.