Hunter’s side triumphed 26-20 in a thrilling encounter when the two sides met last year and after Wales bounced back from an opening defeat to Ireland to follow England’s lead by beating Scotland, this season’s encounter promises to be another close clash.

Leeds flanker Chris Walker has been named England captain for Friday’s game with first starts for Dom Barrow, Tommy Bell, Josh Bassett, Sam Hill and Anthony Watson.

And after thumping Scotland 59-3 before seeing their second game against Italy fall victim to the weather, Hunter admits Walker and co are raring to go.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the guys play,” he said.

“It’s a shame that the Italy match was postponed, we had prepared really well, but we've now had two good weeks training with the guys and we’re excited to see some fresh faces take to the field against Wales.

“It was a close game against the Welsh last season and they’ve made a good start to this season’s Six Nations.

“They’ll present a stern challenge – every time we play them it’s a physical game, and from what we’ve seen they like to run the ball so it should be an entertaining match.”