We relied an awful lot on team spirit last year - after all, the players won the Grand Slam with only two home games.

It will be no different in terms of approach this time around.

The Welsh players realise where their strength lies. We have to pose questions of defences, take the game to the opponents. We like to play a high-tempo game, very skill-based.

But we have a number of injuries to key personnel - Tom Shanklin and Ryan Jones were instrumental in Wales' performances last year because they are the major ball-carriers. Jones was exceptional on the Lions tour and will be a big loss.

We've lost Brent Cockbain and Kevin Morgan and will be without Gavin Henson for the first couple of games. Gareth Thomas is a big injury concern at the moment too, while Sonny Parker's retirement was a bit of bizarre decision.

We might see some interesting youngsters coming through, though. Much has been talked about Gareth Delve, the young Bath back-rower, coming in and filling the breach Jones has left. Delve is very physical and very effective.

England v Wales first up will be a crucial encounter again, particularly for England as they only have two home fixtures this year - Wales and Ireland.

Ireland were a lot of people's favourites last time. Their challenge didn't materialise, yet another Celtic nation won it. It's amazing what this tournament throws up!

But Ireland tend to do well when no-one expects a lot of them. Key players are coming back to form. Brian O'Driscoll, in only his third or fourth game back, was wonderful over the weekend against Bath. Gordon D'Arcy is back to his best and Paul O'Connell is playing well too.

France are looking immensely powerful again. They would be my favourites. They will be well aware that, with a World Cup looming on home soil in 18 months' time, they have to get into the winning habit.

Scotland showed a bit of resilience in the autumn Tests after failing to deliver last year. They lacked the fight and were comprehensively outplayed in so many games. Their defeat to Wales at Murrayfield was probably the lowest ebb.

After making some big strides over the last few seasons, 2005 was a backward step for Italy. They need a victory this year. They will probably be looking at the home match against Scotland on the final weekend to provide that.

You can't fail to be taken in by the RBS 6 Nations, and its element of surprise. I like my sport with a little bit of doubt. The last thing I want to see is a predictable tournament.

You look at the potential shocks, and there's so much to look forward to. It's not just about the 80 minutes - but the occasion, the atmosphere, the support, the anticipation.

Like last year, there certainly won't be a shortage of excitement watching Wales!