The New Zealander has opted for an all Scarlets back-line, with the exception of uncapped wing Josh Adams, and has selected Rhys Patchell at outside half in the absence of Dan Biggar.
Gatland has also gone for an all Scarlets back-row, with Dragons lock Cory Hill partnering skipper Alun Wyn Jones at lock, while Aaron Shingler, Josh Navidi and Ross Moriarty make up the back-row.
“They got to the quarter-finals in Europe and there’s a group of them who have come in with confidence and belief as a collective, which can definitely be a positive’” said Gatland.
“Rhys Patchell has had a good season; he’s started 11 out of his 14 games this season at No.10.
“Both he and Gareth Anscombe have trained particularly well over the last week. There was a healthy discussion about who we should pick but we decided both of them had put their hands up.
“We looked at combinations and those guys are familiar with each other’s play. That speeded up our preparation a little bit and hopefully will get us off to a good start in the Six Nations.”
Gatland was also excited about the prospect of seeing Worcester winger Adams in action.
“He’s done well, he’s the top try-scorer in the Aviva Premiership,” said Gatland.
“Probably the advantage he has over the other guys was he has been playing regularly. Hallam Amos hasn’t played much rugby and neither has George North.
“Josh gets a great opportunity to stake a claim. We have had a look at him recently and he’s been scoring tries in a Worcester team that’s not at the top of the table.
“He’s got to take some credit for that and we have been impressed with him the last couple of weeks he has been in camp with us.”
The Wales boss believes his squad has the ability to make an impact in this seasons NatWest Six Nations.
“We are aware of how important this first-up game is,” he said.
“It is a great chance for us to get off to a good start, and then hopefully look forward to Twickenham in week two. This is our bread and butter.
“Playing at home in front of a full house is definitely what gets the juices flowing and what makes it exciting for the players and coaches.”
