Two years ago we suffered the embarrassment of taking the wooden spoon but managed to finish fourth in 2004 with victories over Scotland and Italy.

At last we are competitive with England, Ireland and France - and the big test will be whether we can get something out of these games, particularly with the first two being at home.

There is a high level of expectancy among the supporters, but I do think they need to be realistic as to what Wales can achieve this year.

There are some excellent teams in the tournament and, for me, the Irish are the favourites this year. They have come a long way.

Last years Triple Crown winners, they are very stable in terms of selection and have world-class players in the likes of Brian ODriscoll, Paul O'Connell and Geordan Murphy.

Also in their favour is the fact they will play England and France at Lansdowne Road.

Wales have not beaten Ireland for 22 years and need to break that hoodoo in this championship.

Andy Robinson is doing things his own way as England head coach and, like Sir Clive Woodward, should be given time to prove himself.

Obviously they have been weakened by the retirement of Lawrence Dallaglio and injuries to Jonny Wilkinson, Mike Tindall, Will Greenwood and the main ball-carrier Martin Corry.

But the world champions must not be taken lightly. This is an opportunity for them to start again after the disappointment of losing two matches last year.

As for the French challenge... who knows? After the autumn internationals - when they managed an outstanding win against Australia before being stunned by Argentina and stuffed by New Zealand - its hard to know which French team will turn up.

Their strength lies in the pack - who have all been performing well for their clubs in the European Cup, as have the midfield runners, although there are still question marks over Frederic Michalaks ability to control the game from 10.

Scotland have a great coach in Matt Williams and he has been making changes for the better. His problem is that he is hamstrung by not having the depth of talent necessary.

The tournament will be a hard slog for the Scots, although they do play the Italians at home.

Italy have not enjoyed a great season so far and, although John Kirwan is a talented coach and they have made great strides under his guidance, they remain my tip for the wooden spoon.