In the absence of the injured Ryan Jones, who has captained Wales in their last three matches – victories over France, Italy and Scotland, Warburton will switch to the blindside with Tipuric coming in at openside.

In recent matches, the pair have vied for the No.7 shirt but without Jones, the pair will play together, having impressed when both were on the field against Scotland.

Gethin Jenkins has been handed the captaincy, leaving Warburton, who was man of the match against Scotland but out of form before then, to concentrate on his own performance.

And Howley is relishing the chance to see both in action from the off.

“I was really pleased with the way they [Warburton and Tipuric] worked together last week,” said Howley.

“I think pressure on the ball is going to be vital on Saturday and we've got two world class number sevens.

“It's going to be a special atmosphere at the weekend and we have to embrace it. It's not new territory for us.

“In terms of Gethin, he captained against Australia in the [2011 World Cup] play-off and has been captain many times before when Ryan or Sam have gone off.

“We're comfortable. We've spoken about leadership and it's not just about the captain, it's about the unity within the squad.

“We're lucky to have that number of leaders within the squad and Gethin gets that responsibility this weekend.”