FORMER British and Irish Lions forward Andy Powell has been left out of Wales' squad for the forthcoming World Cup.

The 32-year-old ex-Cardiff, Wasps and Sale number eight has made five Super League appearances for Wigan since switching codes in June but has been ruled out of the tournament by his club because of injury.

Wales are also denied the services of Castleford's former London Broncos centre Michael Channing and Sydney Roosters forward Tyson Frizell but Warrington centre Rhys Evans is set to make his debut after switching his allegiance from England.

The 20-year-old Bridgend-born Evans, a Welsh junior international, links up with his twin brother Ben and is one of 14 Super League players in Iestyn Harris' 23-man squad, eight of whom are Welsh-born and have come through the WRL development system.

Powell, who is not in Wigan's squad for Saturday's Grand Final against Warrington, revealed on Twitter that he is set to undergo neck surgery.

"Gutting to miss the World Cup, would have been a great experience," he said. "But as everybody knows injuries come at funny times.

"Will hopefully get a op this week on my neck. Can't wait to get a long rest, been the longest season ever - 18 months nonstop.

"Come back next next year fresh and hopefully a pre-season will sort me out."