Ireland begins its Six Nations defence against Wales in a match that sees two of the tournament favourites go head-to-head.
Wales performed admirably at last year’s Rugby World Cup, pushing southern hemisphere giants Australia and South Africa all the way before exiting at the quarter-final stage.
Despite being below strength throughout the tournament, Wales were by far the most impressive Northern Hemisphere team at last year’s World Cup and should be considered a strong chance of taking out the 2016 Six Nations title.
Their journey towards potential success however faces a difficult opening hurdle against an Ireland team eager to make amends following another quarter-final exit at the World Cup.
At their best though, Wales are a good chance of causing a small upset today. The return of starting centres Jamie Roberts and Jonathan Davies is a boost for coach Warren Gatland who will aim to play a high-tempo game against the Irish, just the way Argentina did in the quarter-finals last year.
The Irish were torn apart out wide by Argentina in Cardiff, conceding two quick tries down their left edge defence. If Wales can produce quick ball for their centres, Wales may yet again expose a suspect Irish defence down the flank.
Of course, whether Wales move the ball quickly enough from the breakdown depends on the performance of key figures Sam Warburton and Justin Tipuric.
Ireland meanwhile continue to struggle with injuries and key half Jonathan Sexton is still not back to full fitness. The Irish were badly exposed against Argentina last year with a semi-final spot on the line and it will be interesting to see how they bounce back in front of a big home crowd in Dublin.
Although some bookmakers have Ireland as favourites, Wales showed enough at last year’s World Cup to suggest that they will be the team to beat in this year’s tournament.
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