Creditable defeats by New Zealand and England restored some pride to the battered reputation of Welsh rugby and the Six Nations campaign was eagerly awaited in the Valleys.

A resounding 23-10 triumph over Scotland suggested their recent upturn in fortunes was not a temporary blip, but it is premature to talk of a revival until they have met one of the tournament's better sides.

Ireland, last year's championship runners-up, will provide the acid test for Steve Hansen's men with a victory at Lansdowne Road confirming all post World Cup predictions.

But it will be tough ask against an Irish side keen to register their first victory following last Saturday's defeat in Paris, a result which saw the visitors score two tries but never really threatened to upset the French.

Ireland have British Lions centre Brian O'Driscoll back from his hamstring injury and he links up with Gordon D'Arcy - one of the stars at the Stade de France - in a centre partnership which should cause Wales plenty of problems.

The Welsh have been hit by the loss of skipper Colin Charvis with a dislocated finger but his absence gives exciting young prospect Jonathan Thomas another chance in the back row, while Martyn Williams takes over the captaincy.

But the back-line remains the same and although Wales may find themselves edged up-front, they have plenty of firepower behind the scrum - especially out wide where they did so much damage against the Scots.