Wales - international

• Wales 33 - 10 Italy
  Video report - Gareth Evans

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• Gwyn Jones
  Six Nations

  I wonder how Gatland's week of pain is going. His anger was tangible and he promised us that mistakes would be harshly punished in training as they have been on the pitch. It is hoped that seven days of tough love from Edwards, Howley and company will reinstil the idea that actions have consequences.

  It was revealing how the coach had tried to empower the players to take greater responsibility both on the field and also in the preparations for this year's campaign. It was yet more revealing that they were not up to the job. Gatland also made reference to Wales' deferential attitude to opponents and in these two statements Gatland has divulged more about his squad than you would expect from a coach in the professional era.

  It is an interesting time therefore for Tom Prydie to make his debut. It is a shame that we have seen so little of him in an Ospreys shirt to form our own opinions but his colleagues in the squad have showered him with praise.

  It was not that surprising that Warburton came in for Williams. If you don't play the understudy against Italy, then when do you play him? He is a modern-day openside but Wales are a far less creative team without Williams. Sadly, there is far less space for Williams in the current game and at least Warburton will give the back row some much-needed spark. The return of the big guns should lift the quality of the performance but we should not forget that with the game as demanding as it is these days it is unlikely that any team will have all its first choice fifteen fit at any one time.

  A comprehensive victory against Italy will not make up for the disappointment of the Six Nations Championship.

  I expect Wales to win well as long as the basics are performed adequately but with a shaky line-out and poor ball retention, there is little sign of that thus far. I was optimistic before a ball was kicked in early February but as the Championship has progressed, it has become evident that Wales is not the side I'd hoped it was.

  France should close out England to secure a Grand Slam in an otherwise forgettable Six Nations. Ireland deserve another Triple Crown and Wales have learned a series of harsh lessons.

• Wales under 20 v Italy under 20
  Six Nations

  Wales' future stars will end their 2010 Six Nations campaign exclusively live on S4C, Friday 19 March at 19.55, as they take on Italy at Cardiff Arms Park.

  Neath and Ospreys rising winger Kristian Phillips features in an unchanged back line, whilst coach Phil Davies makes four changes to the pack after last week's crushing defeat against Ireland. Tonmawr duo Joe Rees and James Thomas join Trystan Davies and Morgan Allen in the new-look forwards.

  Edward Siggery makes his debut for the team at blind-side.

  Wales under 20 team: Dan Fish (Blues); James Loxton (Blues); Ben John (Ospreys); Scott Williams (Scarlets); Kristian Phillips (Ospreys); Matthew Jarvis (Ospreys); Gareth Davies (Scarlets); Trystan Davies (Scarlets); Rhys Williams (Blues); Joe Rees (Tonmawr); James Thomas (Dragons); Macauley Cook (Blues); Edward Siggery (Llandovery); Josh Navidi (Blues); Morgan Allen (Pontypool).
  Replacements: Ieuan Davies (Glamorgan Wanderers); Dan Watchurst (Dragons); Rhys Jenkins (Dragons); Ben Thomas (Ospreys); Rhys Downes (Blues); Steve Shingler (Scarlets); Dean Gunter (Blues).

• Prydie to make debut against Italy
  Six Nations

  Tom Prydie will make Welsh rugby history on Saturday afternoon when he starts on the wing in a new-look side showing five changes.

  The Ospreys winger, who replaces Leigh Halfpenny, will break the record for the youngest player to play for Wales by 24 days. The record was previously held Cardiff player Norman Biggs' for 112 years.

  Other changes to the team sees captain Ryan Jones and prop Gethin Jenkins return from injury with Gareth Delve and Paul James dropping to the bench. Mike Phillips also returns to first team action at the expense of Richie Rees who will not feature.

  Martyn Williams, who stepped in to captain the side last weekend, is also a casualty of the defeat to Ireland. Youngster Sam Warburton will start the match in his place.

  Wales team: Lee Byrne (Ospreys); Tom Prydie (Ospreys); James Hook (Ospreys), Jamie Roberts (Cardiff Blues); Shane Williams (Ospreys); Stephen Jones (Scarlets); Mike Phillips (Ospreys); Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues); Matthew Rees (Scarlets); Adam Jones (Ospreys); Bradley Davies (Cardiff Blues); Luke Charteris (Dragons); Jonathan Thomas (Ospreys); Sam Warburton (Cardiff Blues); Ryan Jones (captain, Ospreys).

  Replacements: Huw Bennett (Ospreys); Paul James (Ospreys); Ian Gough (Ospreys); Gareth Delve (Gloucester); Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks); Andrew Bishop (Ospreys); Tom Shanklin (Cardiff Blues).

• Ireland 27 - 12 Wales
  Video report - Gareth Evans

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• Gwyn Jones
  Six Nations

  The game against Ireland is the last chance for Wales to come away from this season with something tangible to be proud of.

  Beating Ireland would at least demonstrate that Wales still has the ability to win against quality opponents and that only minor aspects need addressing.

  Losing may force Gatland to conduct a more profound examination of his ideas and his players.

  Obviously the consistent failing has been to yield the early advantage in each of the games so far. It cannot be by chance alone that Wales are intercepted so frequently.

  Their strategy of 'going the same way' is known to all and allows the opposition outside backs to sit and wait for their chance to blitz.

  To avoid conceding points in the early stages of the game, I suspect Wales will be extremely conservative.

  Ireland will have to force the tempo initially and we shall see if they have the confidence to open the game up from the beginning or if they are also willing to wait for the fireworks in the second half.

  If Wales do play the waiting game then it will place a greater emphasis on its defence to hold the Irish at bay until Wales thinks it's safe to unleash its attacking capabilities.

  Shaun Edwards dismissed the statistics regarding Wales' defensive frailties. He said they do not take into account the context of those lapses and that the stats can be manipulated to fit whatever you desire.

  Here are a couple of my own stats that can be added to the debate.

  Wales conceded 17 points when they were down to 14 men against the 'mighty' attacking force of England, yet when France were down to 14 men against a rampant Wales they conceded no points and indeed scored three of their own.

  I think that far too much of the blame was placed on Alun-Wyn Jones' moment of madness. Good teams can adapt as indeed Wales showed two years ago in Dublin.

  The one failing that disappoints me is Wales' continued inability to address the errors at the line-out.

  Two autumns ago Wales were pushing for victory against the Springboks but lost three line-outs in the last ten minutes.

  Last autumn Wales were chasing a seven point deficit against the All-Blacks before a crucial line-out was lost in the New Zealand twenty-two.

  We can be sure that he Irish locks will have studied that with some relish, even though Wales have picked the giant Luke Charteris.

  The second rower from Gwent has improved no end but for a man of such stature he has surprisingly little presence.

  A key battle in Dublin will be that between the back-rows. Wales' trio has been outplayed in this department and must contend with a well-balanced Irish threesome on Saturday.

  I am delighted to see Delve get his chance, albeit because of the skipper's injury. His attributes are his speed and agility as a ball-carrier in contrast to Jones' bulk and power which can be a little one-paced.

  I am also very pleased to see Martyn Williams lead out Wales on his way to becoming the nation's most capped forward.

  Throughout his career he has had to fight off the allegation that he is not physical enough and he starts this historic game facing that question again.

  He is not a powerful player but he does have some of the most sublime skills that have graced a rugby field.

  Pay your money and take your choice, and for the vast majority of his career the choice of including Williams has been the right one.

• Martyn Williams to captain Wales
  Six Nations

  Martyn Williams leads Wales in their penultimate Six Nations test against Ireland at Dublin's Croke Park on Saturday. Regular captain Ryan Jones ruled out with a calf injury. The match will be broadcast live on S4C on Saturday 13 March at 14:00.

  Jones will be replaced in the squad by Gloucester's captain Gareth Delve who was a surprise call-up to Warren Gatland's squad at the start of the week. The team also sees the return of Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees at the expense of Huw Bennett who drops to the bench.

  Dragons lock Luke Charteris replaces the injured Deiniol Jones and scrum-half Dwayne Peel is named on the Wales bench following Mike Phillips' knee injury.

  Ireland coach Declan Kidney has named an unchanged Irish squad from the team who beat England at Twickenham two weeks ago.

  Wales team: Lee Byrne, Leigh Halfpenny, James Hook, Jamie Roberts; Shane Williams, Stephen Jones, Richie Rees, Paul James, Matthew Rees, Adam Jones, Bradley Davies, Luke Charteris, Jonathan Thomas, Martyn Williams (capt), Gareth Delve.
  Replacements: Huw Bennett, Rhys Gill, Ian Gough, Sam Warburton, Dwayne Peel, Andrew Bishop, Tom Shanklin.

  Ireland team: G Murphy; Bowe, B O'Driscoll, D'Arcy, Earls; Sexton, O'Leary; Healy, R Best, Hayes, O'Callaghan, O'Connell, Ferris, D Wallace, Heaslip.
  Replacements: Kearney, O'Gara, Buckley, Cullen, Jennings, Cronin, Reddan.

• Gareth Delve called up to the Welsh squad
  Six Nations

  Wales' coaching team have called up Gloucester number 8 Gareth Delve to the squad ahead of the crunch match against Ireland at Croke Park this weekend. The match will be broadcast live on S4C, 13 March at 14:00.

  Gareth, who's won 9 caps for Wales, has been called because the Welsh captain Ryan Jones has a calf strain. The last time Gareth Delve played for Wales was during their 2008 summer tour of South Africa.

• Williams and Jones ruled out of Six Nations
  Six Nations

  Cardiff Blues duo Gareth Williams and Deiniol Jones have been forced to pull out of the Wales squad due to injury and neither will play a role in the remaining two Six Nations games.

  Hooker Williams also missed out on a place in the France game because of a niggling knee injury, while Jones was replaced by Luke Charteris early on in the loss with an injury to his ribs.

  Wales coach Warren Gatland will not call up replacements for the remaining tests. He has also released 14 of his 32 man squad to the four regions for this weekend's Magners League matches.

• Wales 20 - 26 France
  Video report - Gareth Evans

  Gareth Evans is a keen rugby fan who works in the S4C Press Office. Here's the lowdown on the clash with France in Gareth's latest match report.

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• Gwyn Jones
  Six Nations

  The two characteristics of Wales' performances in this year's Six Nations campaign so far is their ability to create chances and the amount of mistakes that they make.

  However, we have not seen too many of these attacking movements because Wales have either messed up the line -out, dropped the ball, lost the ball in contact or been turned over at the tackle.

  We are left with a team that can do the difficult work of opening up a defence but cannot execute some of the more basic elements of building a game around organised, phased play.

  The task of redressing the balance will be made even more difficult by France. The French team have looked decidedly un-French at times - disciplined, organised and consistent.

  France will look to pressurise Wales at every opportunity. They are bound to compete at the line-out and will look to force Bennett to make precise throws.

  The scrum will come under sustained pressure. The French front row is a fearsome unit and it will try to give Morgan Parra a chance to get at Richie Rees around the base.

  Wales' inefficiency at the breakdown will be a target area for one of the world's best defensive flankers. Thierry Dusautoir clamps onto the ball and then turns to stone as players bounce off him in an attempt to shift the French captain.

  This is where the loss of work-horses Gethin Jenkins and Alun-Wyn Jones will be felt most acutely.

  Martyn Williams struggled against the Scots and one sensed that we were witnessing the twilight of a magnificent career when he was replaced by Warburton. After saying that, Martyn has been written off before and has confounded the doubters every time.

  Williams will need the support of his back-row against France. He is likely to get far more input from Thomas than he ever got from Powell but Ryan Jones needs to up his contribution too.

  Behind the scrum, I am fairly confident that Wales can cope with the French. Bastareaud's presence will be countered by a very aggressive blitz and there may be some readjusting of Hook and Roberts in attack and defence to get the best out of both players.

  France will feel that Wales are vulnerable. They are inexperienced in vital positions, have untested units in the pack and are liable to crack when placed under sustained pressure.

  France could justifiably say that a good side would have killed off Wales before half time in both their previous matches. France know they will get chances and it is up to them to exploit them when they arrive.

  France start as clear favourites and Wales must make an enormous leap to reach their standards if they are not to be swept aside. But Wales are dangerous and because of that we have a chance.

  What's more is that Wales are the only obstacle between France and the Grand Slam. If France do win then they will only have to overcome Italy and England to complete the job. One of those teams is a very limited side that can barely pass the ball across the backline without dropping it. The other team is Italy.

• French team announcement
  Six Nations

  French wing Benjamin Fall won't play in the Six Nations Championship game against Wales because of an ankle injury.

  Fall was named in the team by coach Marc Livermont after Vincent Clerc's injury. Julian Malizies will take his place and will win his 13th cap for the Blues.

  French team: Clement Poitrenaud (Toulouse); Julien Malzieu (Clermont), Mathieu Bastareaud (Stade Francais), Yannick Jauzion (Toulouse), Alexis Palisson (Brive); Francois Trinh-Duc (Montpellier), Morgan Parra (Clermont Auvergne); Thomas Domingo (Clermont Auvergne), William Servat (Toulouse), Nicolas Mas (Perpignan), Lionel Nallet (Racing-Metro), Pascal Pape (Stade Francais), Thierry Dusautoir (Toulouse, capt), Julien Bonnaire (Clermont Auvergne), Imanol Harinordoquy (Biarritz).

  Replacements: Dimitri Szarzewski (Stade Francais), Jean-Baptiste Poux (Toulouse), Julien Pierre (Clermont Auvergne), Alexandre Lapandry (Clermont Auvergne), Frederic Michalak (Toulouse), David Marty (Perpignan), Marc Andreu (Castres).

• Wales under 20 squad
  International

  Blues academy Josh Navidi, who currently plays for Glamorgan Wanderers, has been named as captain for the Wales under 20 match against France at the Cardiff Arms Park on Friday. The game will be shown on S4C at 5.30pm.

  Pontypridd scrum half Rhys Downes has been chosen by coach Phil Davies as Navidi's vice-captain.

  Wales Under 20: Dan Fish (Blues); James Loxton (Blues), Owen Williams (Blues), Scott Williams (Scarlets), Kristian Phillips (Ospreys); Matthew Jarvis (Ospreys), Rhys Downes (Blues); Dan Watchurst (Dragons), Rhys Williams (Blues), Simon Gardiner (Scarlets), Macauley Cook (Blues), Lloyd Peers (Ospreys), Morgan Allen (Pontypool), Josh Navidi (capt, Blues), Toby Faletau (Dragons)

  Replacements: Ieuan Davies (Glamorgan Wanderers), Rhodri Jones (Scarlets), James Thomas (Dragons), Rhys Jenkins (Dragons), Edward Siggery (Llandovery), Gareth Davies (Scarlets), Dean Gunter (Blues)

• Wales v France: Brynmor Williams preview
  Six Nations

  We have the ability to beat France but it will be about application over 80 minutes. It will depend a lot on the build up to the game as preparation will be key. Despite the relief of winning against Scotland, there will be a great deal of frustration regarding the performance.

  The selection will be crucial. There is a lack of numbers vying for selection to the Welsh team at the moment and one or two injuries, a ban, or loss of form will reduce Gatland's options.

  Scrum

  Warren Gatland often says that games are won and lost up front. And if there is no platform in the forwards there is no chance of victory.

  If France manage to keep the scrum on its feet, they could cause us a massive problem. From an analytical perspective, we will be looking for Wales to time the hit perfectly and almost get the ball in simultaneously in order to secure workable possession and to prevent France using their weight and power.

  It will be about a co-ordinated concentration as a unit from start to finish.

  Line-out

  The line-out is another crucial set piece where the performance of all involved will have to be greatly enhanced.

  England nullified Wales by putting all their big men in the middle and the back of the line out and France will probably do the same.

  Ball carrying

  We will be keen to see how effective we are in carrying the ball and crossing the advantage line.

  Crossing the advantage line is a priority and Wales have been disappointing where this is concerned. And this has a massive impact on the quality of possession that can be secured.

  Kicking game

  Warren Gatland often reminds us that the teams that kick the most win. For me that's a bit too general because it will be depend on who's kicking.

  Wales have arguably the most skilful back three in world rugby but they are not used enough and Ryan Jones' team need to show more courage and conviction and bring them more into play when fielding long kicks.

  Stephen Jones and James Hook will both need to mix things up as they do regularly for their regions.

  Back play

  Our back line looks very good on paper but it is underachieving. I do feel sympathy for them because against Australia, England and Scotland, they have had to work off slow and untidy ball.

  The French half backs - Barra and Trinh-Duc - are clearly outstanding talents but they have not played at the Millennium Stadium before so they have to be put under as much pressure as possible. If we disrupt their half backs, Wales will have a greater chance of beating France.

  Defence

  Clearly some of the players have been letting Shaun Edwards down by missing tackles, falling off tackles and distorting the structure. Each of the guilty players will be aware of this and will want to make amends against France.

  Defence is about communication and conviction underpinning the preplanned structure for all eventualities. The two big French centres Jauzion and Bastareaud have to be stopped early because they have the ability to smash most defences when allowed to take the ball at pace.

  Overview

  Confidence has dwindled in the Welsh camp and a win on Friday against easily the strongest northern hemisphere squad will lift everyone in Wales.

  On paper, we look to be fifteen points adrift but on the night, if the players justify their high ranking status for the first time in twelve months, Wales could end up 3 to 5 points ahead at ten o'clock on Friday night.

• Wales squad announcement
  Six Nations

  Cymru: Lee Byrne (Gweilch); Leigh Halfpenny (Gleision), James Hook (Gweilch), Jamie Roberts (Gleision), Shane Williams (Gweilch); Stephen Jones (Scarlets), Richard Rees (Gleision); Paul James, Huw Bennett, Adam Jones (Gweilch), Bradley Davies, Deiniol Jones (Gleision), Jonathan Thomas (Gweilch), Martyn Williams (Gleision), Ryan Jones (Gweilch, capt)

  Eilyddion: Ken Owens (Scarlets), Rhys Gill (Saracens), Luke Charteris (Dreigiau), Sam Warburton (Gleision), Mike Phillips (Gweilch), Andrew Bishop (Gweilch) , Tom Shanklin (Gleision).

• More injuries hit Wales squad
  Six Nations

  Wales' front-row has been hit with injuries ahead of their crucial Six Nations match against France with Gareth Williams, Matthew Rees and Gethin Jenkins all ruled out.

  Williams suffered knee ligament damage in the win against Scotland, Rees has a groin problem, and Jenkins was seen limping off after playing only 12 minutes of Wales' second match of the championship against the Scots.

  In response to the injuries, Scarlets in-form hooker Ken Owens has been called up to join the squad. He will still play in the Scarlets Magners League clash against Leinster on Saturday.

• Jones ruled out of Six Nations
  Six Nations

  Wales suffer another blow in their preparation for the match against France in the Six Nations Championship with Alun Wyn Jones ruled out for the rest of the tournament.

  The lock injured his elbow during a collision with Scott Lamont in the 31 – 24 win against Scotland and looks likely to be sidelined for up to 12 weeks. Gatland has a choice of four other locks - Ian Gough, Deiniol Jones, Bradley Davies and Luke Charteris.

  This news also comes as a blow to the Ospreys, who will miss Jones for their quarter final clash with Biarritz in the Heineken Cup.

• Powell dropped from Wales squad
  Six Nations

  Andy Powell has been dropped from the Wales squad following his early morning arrest whilst following the last-minute win against Scotland.

  Powell will not play any other part in the 2010 Six Nations Championship after he was arrested in the early hours of Sunday morning and later charged for driving a golf buggy whilst under the influence of alcohol.

  The flanker acted outside the WRU's official code of conduct said team manager Alan Phillips in a statement.

• Wales 31 - 24 Scotland
  Video report - Gareth Evans

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• Gareth Roberts – Q & A
  Six Nations

  

  1. Newspaper reports have been critical of Alun-Wyn Jones and his sending off in the loss against England last weekend. Do you think it's fair to blame one player?

  It has certainly been a talking point from the game and it's clear to say that Jones' sin bin came at a critical time in the match. It was a contributing factor, yes, but the team as a whole was to blame for the loss. The lines weren't working early in the game for instance and the quality of the ball from the scrum half wasn't brilliant - the coaching team will have had to improve these areas ahead of the Scotland match.

  2. Alun-Wyn Jones has since been included in the squad to face Scotland. Do you think he'll bounce back?

  Fair play, he's put his hand up and admitted his mistake. He's a strong character and a player of the highest quality with a lot to offer the Wales squad. He's reacted in a positive way and will come back stronger than ever.

  3. Who impressed you in last week's match?

  James Hook is such a talented player. In the autumn he proved that he could deputise for Lee Byrne at full-back and he excelled himself last week when he partnered Jamie Roberts in midfield, playing outside centre for the first time at international level. He looked relaxed in the role and I'm looking forward to seeing what more the Hook-Roberts pairing has to offer. Also, it was great to see Adam Jones back in a Welsh shirt after his injury. He capped off a solid performance with a great try.

  4. What can Wales do in their first home game of the competition against Scotland to secure a vital win?

  In recent seasons, it's been argued that Wales are a second-half team. But against Scotland we have to put our stamp on the game early on. The Welsh scrum worked well against England and with Gethin Jenkins back in the squad as a replacement, it makes the area even stronger. His work-rate is first class and he works hard off the ball too.

  5. Who can we expect to cause problems for Wales on the pitch today?

  Andy Robinson's Scotland are a physical team, so they won't be a walk in the park that's for sure. Johnny Beattie and Sean Lamont looked threatening in the game against France last weekend and won a lot of territory during the eighty minutes - but Scotland are the only team who didn't score a try in the opening weekend and that will be a boost for Wales.

• Gwyn Jones
  Six Nations

  I think it's fair to say that Warren Gatland's honeymoon period as Welsh coach is over. He enjoyed a much longer position of deference in Welsh rugby than most coaches but all that ended with the announcement of the team to face Scotland.

  There has been general incredulity that the two Gareths survived the chop and this has made a large number of supporters voice their dissatisfaction with Gatland.

  This is of course a typical Welsh reaction to a poor performance, much like Gatland's over-reaction to Alun-Wyn Jones' sinbin in the post-match interview. Perhaps there is a bit of Wales rubbing off on the Kiwi. Basically, I think that both reactions have been over the top.

  I thought that Gatland was wrong to pin the blame on Jones in the aftermath of Twickenham either publicly or privately. The brainless act of a player who is normally one of our outstanding forwards deserved criticism but the loss cannot be laid at his feet.

  Being reduced to fourteen men is not the catastrophe Wales made it appear last weekend. All professional sides are used to being one man down and it should not automatically mean that they concede points so easily.

  Gatland was never going to drop Jones. If he had, he would have deprived the team of one of his best players and, in doing so, he would have jeopardized a much-needed victory against Scotland.

  Wales' game plan, when they're not kicking, is to produce mismatches after a series of quick recycles. However, this relies on Wales' ability to win the ball and then to keep it. Both of these elements proved beyond their capacity for long periods of the game against England.

  England are a limited side. I'm not sure if we'll ever have such a good opportunity to win in London again. But if they are so poor, what does our inability to beat them say about us?

  The saying goes ' you're only as good as your last game' and in that respect Wales are decidedly average. Yes, we can create chances, but the massive chunks of rugby between those chances were error-strewn.

  In fact, when was the last time the Welsh side really played well? I would suggest it's not been for about a year. The adage often trotted out after disappointing performances is that a team doesn't become a bad team overnight. I'm not saying Wales are a bad side but there has definitely been a decline in performance and it has been going on for much longer than just one night.

  I'm glad that Gatland has stuck with Williams at hooker. The line-outs were a mess but it is a group skill and he was not the only one at fault. More than that, he has been been in great form for the Blues in recent weeks and he deserves a second chance. Dropping him for Bennett, one of the more inert members of the squad, would achieve little.

  The same arguments cannot be applied to Cooper. Here is a scrum half low on confidence and searching for the right decisions on the field. At his best, Cooper is sharp and instinctive but at present his hesitancy disrupts the flow of the team. He is out of favour at his region and on this occasion there is a player that looks ready to take his place. I would have started with Richie Rees.

  The team the Scotland have selected possesses little in the way of surprises. They have a solid pack with a strong front row and plenty of height in the rest of the forwards to test our line-out. The back row has improved considerably but is hardly sensational.

  Dan Parks' inclusion at ten provides Scotland with a tactical kicker as well as providing Jamie Roberts with a target. Other than that, they have some powerful runners in the three-quarters but no-one to lose any sleep over.

  Scotland play a patient brand of rugby. They keep the ball for phase after phase, mainly because they're loath to endanger possession. It's a safety first brand of attack and they don't go for line breaks in fear of isolating themselves. It is high tempo but low reward as it never draws in defenders.

  In defence they are equally passive. They don't blitz, they stay back and hold the line more often than not. But with the rugby union as a whole going through an uninspiring period, the Scottish game plan is difficult to beat.

  Wales needs to get its act together and a home match against Scotland is exactly what they need. I thought that the Scotland game would be a formality but losing against England has put an element of doubt in my mind.

  Wales will field 12 Lions on Saturday and it's time they showed some of that quality. A convincing win is needed to stop the slide, otherwise Gatland will have some serious rethinking to do about both his players and his tactics.

• Hines out of Wales match
  Six Nations

  Scotland and Leinster lock Nathan Hines has withdrawn from the squad to face Wales at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday due to a calf strain.

  Hines will be replaced in the squad by Edinburgh's Jim Hamilton, who himself has only just recovered from a long term knee injury.

  Meanwhile, Wales scrum-half Mike Phillips has delayed his return to action after ankle ligament damage. He was due to return in Swansea's match against Carmarthen Quins on the weekend but will more than likely feature at some point during the Ospreys Magners League clash with Connacht on 21 February.

• Wales and Scotland squad announcements
  Six Nations

  There are two changes in Wales' squad to face Scotland in Millennium Stadium this weekend as Leigh Halfpenny and Jonathan Thomas return at the expense of Tom James and Luke Charteris who both lose their places in the squad. The match will be broadcast live on S4C Saturday 13 February 13:55.

  Good news for Wales supporters is that Gethin Jenkins returns to the fold as a replacement but the coaching team will monitor him throughout the week to avoid any further injuries. Tom Shanklin is also named as a substitute after a good performance for the Blues in their win against the Scarlets in the LV Cup.

  Euan Murray, Dan Parks and Rory Lamont return to the Scottish side to face Wales having been left out of the loss against France in Murrayfield last weekend.

  Murray replaces Moray Low as hooker, with Lamont coming in for Max Evans and Phil Goodman making way for the new Cardiff Blues fly-half, Dan Parks. Full-back Chris Paterson is set to win his 100th cap for Scotland in Cardiff.

  Wales: Lee Byrne (Ospreys); Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues), James Hook (Ospreys), Jamie Roberts (Cardiff Blues), Shane Williams (Ospreys); Stephen Jones (Scarlets), Gareth Cooper (Cardiff Blues); Paul James (Ospreys), Gareth Williams (Cardiff Blues), Adam Jones (Ospreys), Jonathan Thomas (Ospreys), Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys), Andy Powell (Cardiff Blues), Martyn Williams (Cardiff Blues), Ryan Jones (Ospreys, captain).

  Replacements: Huw Bennett (Ospreys), Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues), Bradley Davies (Cardiff Blues), Sam Warburton (Cardiff Blues), Richie Rees (Cardiff Blues), Andrew Bishop (Ospreys), Tom Shanklin (Cardiff Blues).

  Scotland: C Paterson (Edinburgh); T Evans (Glasgow), S Lamont (Scarlets), G Morrison (Glasgow), R Lamont (Toulon); D Parks (Glasgow), C Cusiter (Glasgow, capt); A Dickinson (Gloucester), R Ford (Edinburgh), E Murray (Northampton), N Hines (Leinster), A Kellock (Glasgow), K Brown (Glasgow), J Barclay (Glasgow), J Beattie (Glasgow).

  Replacements: S Lawson (Gloucester), A Jacobsen (Edinburgh), R Gray (Glasgow), A MacDonald (Edinburgh), M Blair (Edinburgh), P Godman (Edinburgh), M Evans (Glasgow).

• Wales' Rugby 7 squad win the Bowl
  Rugby 7's

  There's a chance for rugby 7's supporters to see Wales win the Bowl competition at the Wellington leg of the International Rugby Board World Seven Series on S4C.

  Wales secured the win in a hard fought battle against France. The Final score was 7 - 5. Wales also beat Papua New Guinea and Argentina on the way to the final. All the highlights will be shown on Rygbi 7: Seland Newydd which is broadcast on Wednesday 10 February 22:40.

• Wales' sin bin hands England victory
  Six Nations

  A silly foul by Wales lock Alun-Wyn Jones handed England the 30 - 17 win and the momentum in Wales' opening crunch match of the 2010 Six Nations Championship.

  During Jones' ten minutes on the sidelines, England scored a total of 17 points, with James Haskell and Danny Care both crossing the line and Jonny Wilkinson's perfect boot ensuring that the home side were comfortably in the lead.

  Wales responded well after the break with two tries from Ospreys duo Adam Jones and James Hook to put the visitors within touching distance of re-creating another comeback at Twickenham.

  But Wales' joy was short-lived as Delon Armitage intercepted a Stephen Jones pass which saw man of the match Haskell score his second of the night.

  In the other Six Nations fixtures of the weekend, current Grand Slam holders Ireland beat Italy at Croke Park 29 - 11 and France outclassed Scotland in Murrayfield as youngster Mathieu Bastareaud crossed for two first half tries.

• Injury for Jenkins
  Six Nations

  Wales prop Gethin Jenkins won't be available opening match in the Six Nations campaign because of a calf muscle injury. Paul James, who played in all of Wales' autumn internationals, takes his place at loose head prop while uncapped Rhys Gill goes on the bench for the match against England in Twickenham on Saturday.

• Gwyn Jones
  Six Nations

  The momentum swung in Wales' direction late on Tuesday night when the European Rugby Cup independent appeal committee quashed Lee Byrne's ban from playing in the crucial Six Nations' opening match in Twickenham.

  The unjust verdict was overturned after a plea from an entire nation was heard in Glasgow to free the 'Osprey One'. Wales look a far more balanced side with Byrne at full-back and Hook in midfield and I now believe that they are outright favorites to start the campaign with a win.

  That's not to say that it will be easy or that there won't be a scare or two before the final whistle. But if you were to pick the best fifteen out of the two teams selected, how many English would get into Wales' team?

  For once we can travel to HQ expecting nothing less that parity in the pack. The front row should gain the upper hand in the scrum, giving both Powell and Jones in the back-row ample opportunity to cross the gain-line.

  The Wales line-out remains a fragile beast. Last year Galtland engineered that the talented England lock Nick Kennedy, who had been picked for his lineout skills, was kept out of the game.

  The England coach is of course a line-out guru and believes that Kennedy and skipper Steve Barthwick can give his side a dependable supply of possession. Wales, on the other hand, will try to render both jumpers as obsolete.

  I would so like Wales to do a number on Lewis Moody. Wales cannot allow him to be his irritating self at the tackle area and the easiest way of preventing him from being effective is to make him do the tackling.

  He must be made to tackle Wales' big runners so that the effort of the tackle prevents him from regaining his feet quickly and getting involved in the next phase of play.

  I also believe Wales has a major advantage in midfield but England out-thought us last year by putting Worsley in the backline to marshal Roberts. With Wilkinson at fly-half, Wales should learn their lesson that there is little value in running at a great tackler. So Roberts needs to be used wider and preferably he should be aiming at the space between Flutey and Tait.

  With Hook in midfield Wales have a touch of class that can change the complexion of the game. He can release Byrne with his hands, he can chip into space or he can run with devastating effect himself. Wales looked unimaginative and one dimensional in the autumn but that was with Hook at full-back. His selection in the centre should change that to some degree.

  It is not hard to deduce from what I have said then that I think Wales will win on Saturday if they play well. That is not to say that I think Wales are a wonderful side, they're not. They have a huge amount to prove. I base my prediction on the fact that I think England are in utter turmoil and are searching for an identity on the pitch.

  If Wales were facing either France or Ireland in their first encounter, then I would be predicting a loss. We have much work to do. Our once impregnable defence has become a little leaky. Our pattern of 'going the same way' is predictable and the kicking strategy, although important, allows the intensity and pace of the game to dissipate.

  Overall, I cannot see any of the six nations completing the Grand Slam this season. Before a ball is kicked in anger, it would appear that it will be a shoot out between the French and the Irish, with Wales proving stubborn opponents for both. By the end of the Championship we will be far more enlightened as to where Wales stands one year out from a World Cup.

  But not only is this a critical time for Wales it is also an important two months for the game of Rugby Union. The autumn tests were turgid, boring affairs. The game needs to reconnect with its public and provide some value for the ever-increasing ticket prices.

  But just this once I'm prepared to let the quality slide in exchange for an ugly win on the old cabbage patch.

• Wales team announcement
  Six Nations

  Mathew Rees won't be available for Wales' match against England on Saturday because of a groin injury. Gareth Willams takes his place as hooker and starts his first Six Nations match in the process.

  Lee Byrne will play full-back after his two week ban was overturned yesterday while Jamie Roberts and James Hook form a new partnership in midfield.

  With Mike Phillips and Dwayne Peel out, Warren Gatland has chosen Gareth Cooper to play scrum-half in front of Richie Rees and Martin Roberts.

  Winger Tom James also starts his first Six Nations game instead of Lee Halfpenny while Martyn Roberts and Andy Powell complete the back row each side of captain Ryan Jones at number eight.

  Wales team: Lee Byrne (Ospreys); Tom James (Blues); James Hook (Ospreys); Jamie Roberts (Blues); Shane Williams (Ospreys); Stephen Jones (Scarlets); Gareth Cooper (Blues); Gethin Jenkins (Blues); Gareth Williams (Blues); Adam Jones (Ospreys); Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys); Luke Charteris (Dragons); Andy Powell (Blues); Martyn Williams (Blues); Ryan Jones (Ospreys, capt).

  Replacements: Huw Bennett (Ospreys); Paul James (Ospreys); Bradley Davies (Blues); Jonathan Thomas (Ospreys); Richie Rees (Blues); Andrew Bishop (Ospreys); Leigh Halfpenny (Blues).

• England team announcement
  Six Nations

  Centre, Mathew Tate, starts his second game for England since the 2007 World Cup Final on Saturday. The match against Wales will be broadcast live on Y Clwb Rygbi Rhyngwladol on Saturday 06 February at 16:30.

  Full-back Delon Armitage, centre Ricky Flutey, number eight Nick Easter and scrum-half Danny Care are all named in Martin Johnson's side.

  Welsh coach, Warren Gatland, will announce his team after Lee Byrne's appeal hearing against a two week ban on Tuesday. The Ospreys full-back was banned following a 16 man fiasco against Leicester in a Heineken Cup fixture on 23 January.

  England team: D Armitage (London Irish); M Cueto (Sale Sharks); M Tait (Sale Sharks); R Flutey (Brive); U Monye (Harlequins); J Wilkinson (Toulon); D Care (Harlequins); T Payne (Wasps); D Hartley (Northampton); D Wilson (Bath); S Shaw (Wasps); S Borthwick (Saracens, capt); J Haskell (Stade Francais); L Moody (Leicester); N Easter (Harlequins).

  Replacements: S Thompson (Brive); D Cole (Leicester); L Deacon (Leicester); S Armitage (London Irish); P Hodgson (London Irish); T Flood (Leicester); B Foden (Northampton).

• Gatland announces Six Nations squad
  Six Nations

  Warren Gatland has called uncapped wingers Kristian Phillips and Tom Prydie, both of whom play for the Ospreys, to develop and add strength to the position in this year's Welsh Six Nations squad.

  There's no room for scrum-halves Mike Phillips and Dwayne Peel - both are out with injuries - which means that the coaching team have turned to Gareth Cooper, Martin Roberts and Richie Rees, who has impressed for the Blues in recent weeks.

  Lee Byrne and Adam Jones return to the international stage after missing the autumn internationals due to injury.

  Backs: Gareth Cooper, Leigh Halfpenny, Tom James, Richard Rees, Jamie Roberts, Tom Shanklin (Cardiff Blues) Dan Biggar, Andrew Bishop, Lee Byrne, James Hook, Kristian Phillips, Tom Prydie, Shane Williams (Ospreys), Jonathan Davies, Stephen Jones, Martin Roberts (Scarlets)

  Forwards: Bradley Davies, Gethin Jenkins, Deiniol Jones, Andy Powell, Sam Warburton, Gareth Williams, Martyn Williams (Cardiff Blues), Huw Bennett, Ian Gough, Paul James, Adam Jones, Alun Wyn Jones, Ryan Jones, Jonathan Thomas (Ospreys), Matthew Rees (Scarlets), Luke Charteris, Dan Lydiate (Dragons), Eifion Lewis-Roberts (Sale Sharks), Rhys Gill (Saracens)

• Wales 12 - 33 Australia
  Autumn Internationals

  It was a disappointing end to the autumn series as Wales crashed against Australia at the Millennium Stadium, 12 -33.

  Digby Ioane, James Horwill and David Pocock scored a try each in a 25 minute blitz in the first half.

  Wales suffered injuries for Shane Williams, Leigh Halfpenny and Matthew Rees, but Halfpenny and Stephen Jones managed to keep the gap between both teams to eleven points at the end of the half.

  When Tatafu Polota-NU crossed for a try in the second half it was all over for Wales. This was their worst defeat but one in 22 tests since Warren Gatland was named head coach.

• Gwyn Jones
  Autumn Internationals

  After three games of the autumn international series, I'm still finding it difficult to measure how good Wales are at the moment.

  There are times when they are clinical and efficient and are only a few minor adjustments away from being capable of beating anyone.

  Yet there are also periods during which you worry that Wales have fallen back to mid-table mediocrity.

  You could argue that the final match against Australia will define the series as a success or not and will go some way clarifying Wales' current status in the world pecking order.

  On the other hand, what significance can be put on beating Australia? They are not presently in the same league as South Africa and New Zealand, having won just two of their last nine games.

  Close game

  I think that Wales start this game as favourites, and rightly so. But do not expect anything other than a tight and close affair. Most of the games between the major nations have been close this autumn.

  We have seen Italy hold the All Blacks to twenty points and England, despite being generally awful, have had low scoring matches. The gap between the best and the rest is narrowing all the time.

  This is partly because the age of professionalism has eventually leveled the playing field when it comes to strength and fitness. Physically, teams are better matched because they all train roughly the same amount.

  Secondly the increased video analysis has allowed teams to negate each other's strengths. The other aspect of analysis is that it has brought most of the playing styles closer together. All teams copy each other's good points.

  You can understand how difficult it is to break free from the shackles in these circumstances yet that is the challenge that faces Wales on Saturday.

  Wales' scrum will come under greater scrutiny but it has held up well enough so far so I'm not expecting it to fold now. The lineout has improved beyond measure but the Aussies will test it further.

  But possession should not be a problem and so the game will be decided by how well Wales use that ball.

  Important match

  With Australia not normally a blitzing defensive team it should provide the opportunity for Jamie Roberts to get into the action more effectively. His target will be Giteau and Cooper and he should be able to cross the gainline.

  This is a big game for Roberts. Having returned from South Africa amidst such adulation he has been a marginal figure in the three games thus far. I'm sure the frustration is building within him as he wants to prove his worth.

  But he needs to be patient and look to his left where he can draw on the example of Shane Williams who has had to bide his time in the quiet periods before now. Roberts has good skills as well as great power and he will be a force in midfield on Saturday.

  Dwayne Peel will also feel that he has a point to prove. He is being asked to lift the pace and provide the spark. This is his chance to show Gatland that he has more to his game than being technically supreme.

  This match will test Wales' defence more than their previous encounters this autumn. The Wallabies will try to find a way through with a multi-phase pattern and quick re-cycling.

  This will demand a defensive display of discipline and diligence from Andy Powell, qualities he must demonstrate if he is to hang onto the blindside shirt.

  Ultimately I believe Wales will win in what could be the game of the autumn series. If both coaches hold their nerve and entrust their teams to play with freedom, this could be a spectacle.

• Wales v Australia
  Autumn Internationals

  Gatland shows faith in squad as he makes one change

  Sale Sharks scrum-half Dwayne Peel is the only change to Wales' squad as they prepare to challenge Australia at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

  Gareth Cooper, who loses his place in the squad, and flanker Sam Warburton have both been released by Wales and will return for the Blues in their friendly match against the Wallabies.

  Head coach Warren Gatland also keeps the faith with Scarlets centre Jonathan Davies, despite Tom Shanklin's return from injury. There's no place for Shanklin in the 22-man squad with Gatland opting to name Andrew Bishop on the bench as midfield cover.

  Wales: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny; Jamie Roberts; Jonathan Davies; Shane Williams; Stephen Jones; Dwayne Peel; Gethin Jenkins; Matthew Rees; Paul James; Alun-Wyn Jones; Luke Charteris; Andy Powell; Martyn Williams; Ryan Jones (capt)

  Replacements: Huw Bennett; Duncan Jones; Jonathan Thomas; Dan Lydiate; Martin Roberts; Andrew Bishop; Tom James.

• Wales 33 - 16 Argentina
  Autumn Internationals

  Wales had a comfortable victory against Argentina in the Millennium Stadium over the weekend as they punished mistakes by the Pumas to win 33 -16.

  Stephen Jones scored the first try for Wales when he spotted the Argentinean defence sleeping and quickly took a tap and ran in the corner.

  Early in the second half, Shane Williams crossed the try line for his first of the match when he got hold of the ball and jinked his way passed three defenders before scoring his 47th try for Wales.

  As against Samoa, Wales looked comfortable throughout but conceded a gift of a try later in the match. Martin Rodriguez scored following a mistake by new centre, Jonathan Davies.

  As the match came to a close, a clearance kick by Fernandez Lobbe went straight to the hands of Shane Williams who took advantage of the disorganised Argentinean defence to cross under the posts.

• Gwyn Jones
  Autumn Internationals

  On the evidence of the autumn international matches so far, the great game of Rugby Union is in a mess. Most of the games have been dominated by endless kicking and cautious tactics and it is only occasionally that the play has become fluid enough to free itself from these turgid and boring affairs.

  The blame has been laid at the feet of the coaches for being too dictatorial and for demanding such negativity from their teams. The finger has also been pointed at the players for their inability to 'play with their heads up' and make bold but correct decisions.

  There may be some element of truth in these arguments but on the whole they miss the point. The reason that teams kick so much is because that is the most likely way to win matches.

  Kicking game

  The best two teams in the world, South Africa and New Zealand, kick the ball more than any other. Despite the fact that both of these teams contain the finest players in the game, they both play a low-risk brand of the game which is tedious to watch yet highly successful.

  It seems that the laws of the game, along with the way in which they are interpreted, have led to the style of rugby that we are all enduring at the moment.

  Ah... But what about Australia?' you may say, 'They don't kick as much as the others'. No they don't, but they don't win as much as the others either.

  Robbie Deans knows his side cannot outkick and outmuscle the All Blacks and the Springboks and is looking for another way to beat them. One win in six attempts demonstrates that his ideas have some way to go.

  It was not long ago that teams like Munster and indeed Wales were able to keep the ball for phase after phase just by moving a yard or two and setting up a ruck.

  Legislations

  This was unacceptable and the IRB's response was to alter the emphasis at the tackle area and so a new term was born.

  'Sealing off' became the buzz word and it gave referees the ability to penalise teams in possession at the ruck. Therefore, keeping the ball became harder.

  This summer there was an attempt to make the tackle area even more competitive. The rugby laws were tweaked again, allowing the first man arriving at the tackle from the defensive team to handle the ball and crucially he was no longer required to release the ball if another player engaged with him to form a ruck.

  The idea was based on the belief that this would encourage more players into the tackle area and thus create more space for the backs as a result.

  However, the statistics show that teams in possession commit on average two more players to the ruck than the defending team in order to secure the ball.

  Defences have the ascendancy and there is no incentive for sides to run the ball in the face of such obstacles. The risks are too great to do anything other than kick in your own half.

  That is why teams like Wales and New Zealand, who would much prefer to play an open game, end up kicking each other into submission.

  Answers?

  What are the answers? I cannot see any other solution to this dilemma other than to legislate.

  The first change to consider is allowing a Mark to be called if there is a clean catch from a kick anywhere on the field and that one option to restart the game is a scrum from where the ball was kicked.

  This would punish long aimless kicking. It would also make scrummaging more important. It would also increase touch finders rather than the mindless hoof.

  We saw a wonderful example of the creativity of kicking in Leigh Halfpenny's try on Friday night and those aspects must remain an important part of the game. But the game is in decline as an exciting, entertaining spectacle at the moment and this cannot be allowed to continue for much longer.

• Wales v Argentina
  Autumn Internationals

  Wales coach Warren Gatland has restored most of the team that lost 19 -12 to New Zealand two weeks ago to face Argentina in the Millennium Stadium on Saturday. The game will be broadcast live on S4C.

  The only change is that Jonathan Davies replaces Tom Shanklin, who broke his nose against Samoa, to start at centre.

  Lions quartet, Shane Williams, Stephen Jones, Matthew Rees and Martyn Williams are back in the squad after being rested last week.

  Gareth Cooper starts as scrum half with Dwayne Peel on the bench. Andrew Bishop, who was called to the squad at the start of the week to replace Tom Shanklin in the squad is also on the bench.

  Argentina, who lost 16 – 9 to England over the weekend will name their team later in the week.

  Wales team: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny; Jamie Roberts; Jonathan Davies; Shane Williams; Stephen Jones; Gareth Cooper; Gethin Jenkins; Matthew Rees; Paul James; Alun Wyn Jones; Luke Charteris; Andy Powell; Martyn Williams; Ryan Jones (capt).

  Substitutes: Huw Bennet; Duncan Jones; Bradley Davies; Dan Lydiate; Dwayne Peel; Andrew Bishop; Tom James.

• Lucky escape for Wales
  Autumn Internationals

  Samoa came close to beating Wales at the Millennium Stadium over the weekend as they fought back from being 17 - 6 down.

  Wales started well with new fly half, Dan Biggar, sending a message to Stephen Jones with a perfect high kick across field that was caught by Lee Halfpenny for an early try. Although Wales crossed the advantage line more than once, the finishing let them down.

  In the second half, with the score 11 - 3 to Wales, Halfpenny and Biggar scored a penalty each to extend the advantage.

  But in the last quarter with Wales looking to push the Samoans, a wide ball from Biggar was intercepted by the Samoan centre, Mapusua, who had a clear run to the try line. Final score 17 - 13.

• Gwyn Jones
  Autumn Internationals

  Will Sam Warburton be Wales' next Martyn Williams? The simple answer is no. The question should be rephrased, 'Will Sam Warburton be Wales' next number 7? The answer to that is quite possibly yes.

  Trying to compare any open side flanker with Martyn Williams is unfair because he's different. He was born with an instinct and ability to perceive the game on a different plane. These attributes are not coachable, they are innate and Williams' special gift is rare.

  The number 7 shirt is worn by the most diverse group of players. You can see the variety just by looking at the current crop of players who occupy that position.

  You see players like George Smith, a low to the ground terrier, England's destructive kick chaser Lewis Moody, Ireland's powerful ball carrying David Wallace and the master of them all, Richie McCaw.

  Individual style

  What Sam Warburton needs to do is find his own niche in the game. That's what sets great openside flankers apart from the rest. Warburton must find his individual style that will raise him above the others.

  He looks comfortable at the tackle area and he will learn the tricks that are required to be a force over the ball.

  From what I have seen so far, Warburton is going to be a ball carrier. He is bigger than Martyn Williams and appears more dynamic. When he has played for the Blues, he has made his impact on the game with ball in hand.

  Vision

  It was one moment during last summer's North America tour that I saw something special in Warburton that made me believe he could inherit the openside shirt.

  It was nothing spectacular, blink and you'd have missed it. Early in the game against the USA he took the ball into contact on one of those small runs that ends in an inevitable pile up. However, when things looked to be going nowhere, he produced a pass out of the back of his hand that was completely unexpected.

  This was not the actions of a player who is head down backside up and keeps going until he hits the ground. This split-second action had vision, imagination and skill.

  Warburton is solid defensively, competitive over the ball in the tackle and offers a reliable line-out option. He is separated from the others not only because of his ability to carry the ball with power but also because he can release others with the subtlest of touches when required.

  Strong team

  Gatland's decision to field a strong side suggests to me that he is keen to get the bulk of the first team familiar with each other and with their slightly altered game plan. There were hints of these game plan alterations against the All Blacks but the game turned into a battle rather than an opportunity to execute a pattern.

  Wales must also look to peak for their autumn finale against the Aussies who looked a far more dangerous side than Australian sides that have visited these shores in recent years. Three wins from four would be a good return for Wales from this autumn series and I believe it is within their reach.

  But their first step along that path is likely to be a bruising encounter with Samoa. Both Wales and Warburton will look to develop and impress.

• Huw Llywelyn Davies
  Autumn Internationals

  This is the hardest autumn series we've had because each of the teams we face pose different challenges. We'll have to ensure that there's balance in the squad between the experienced and new. To be brutally honest, anything less than two wins during the series is total failure if we want to claim that we've moved forward.

  New Zealand

  If you look at the commitment and physical competiveness of the Welsh side in their opening match then we've moved on as a squad.

  But the lack of chances to score were obvious and we only had two or three half chances during the playing time.

  I think there was more of a gap between the teams than the final score suggests. Although New Zealand scored one try, three decisions went against them.

  Samoa

  While every Welsh person hoped for a win last weekend, on Friday the fans will expect a win.

  But it will be dangerous because Samoa is a physical team who could be too strong. After all, they've already kicked us out of two World Cups in the past.

  With their players scattered around Europe, the Samoan squad only came together at the start of the week so I don't expect them to be as methodical and clinical as New Zealand.

  Argentina

  The worry against Argentina is the scrum. It's fair to say that they've got the bet scrum in the world, and without Adam Jones, the prop who keeps Wales' scrum together, there will be enormous pressure on Paul James or whoever else will start the match in that position.

  Argentina are also under strength because two of their best players - Hernandez and Contipomi - are out of the series. This makes the task a bit easier for Wales.

  Australia

  Australia have a lot of talent. This was apparent in Twickenham against England and they can play some exciting rugby.

  Australia tend to build and develop towards the World Cup and they are in the middle of that process at the moment. Unlike New Zealand, who play their best rugby between World Cups, Australia play at their best in the competition.

• Wales squad for Samoa
  Autumn Internationals

  Five changes in squad to face Samoa

  Warren Gatland has made five changes to the team that narrowly lost against New Zealand in Cardiff over the weekend as they face their second challenge of the autumn series - against Samoa.

  Dwayne Peel will win his 70th cap for Wales as he is favoured to Gareth Cooper. Tom James replaces Shane Williams on the left wing and Ospreys fly-half Dan Biggar is recalled at the expense of Stephen Jones.

  Sam Warburton replaces his Cardiff Blues teammate Martyn Williams, who is rested, and Huw Bennett is the selected hooker with Matthew Rees dropping to the bench.

  Jonathan Thomas, who returns to action after suspension, is among the substitutes. Craig Mitchell also wins the nod on the bench as does Morgan Stoddart, who was brought in as a replacement for his injured Scarlets captain, Mark Jones.

  Wales: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny, Tom Shanklin, Jamie Roberts, Tom James; Dan Biggar; Dwayne Peel; Gethin Jenkins; Huw Bennett; Paul James; Luke Charteris; Alun-Wyn Jones; Andy Powell; Sam Warburton; Ryan Jones (capt).

  Replacements: Matthew Rees; Craig Mitchell; Bradley Davies; Jonathan Thomas; Martin Roberts; Jonathan Davies; Morgan Stoddart.

• Wales lose to New Zealand
  Autumn Internationals

  56 years of hurt continues in Cardiff

  New Zealand continued their 56 year winning streak against Wales on the weekend with a 12 - 19 victory at the Millennium Stadium.

  Dan Carter and Stephen Jones kicked two penalties a piece in the first half to allow both sides to leave the half on level scores. A second half try from Andrew Hore gave the visitors the advantage and a further two penalties from Carter's boot secured the win.

  A late break by Alun Wyn Jones from an interception had the crowd cheering but without the support he needed, the All Blacks raced back in defence.

  The All Blacks fly-half Carter has since been cited by the IRB for his high tackle on Wales scrum-half Martin Roberts. Flanker Dafydd Jones is an injury doubt for the remaining autumn tests with a shoulder injury.

• Gwyn Jones
  Autumn Internationals

  The New Zealand rugby team arrive in Wales as the most vulnerable All Blacks side that I can remember.

  There may be no such thing as a poor All Blacks side but no-one would argue that this is one of their finest.

  However, are Wales good enough to exploit these weaknesses and record a memorable victory?

  If Wales were at full strength I would be more confident, but injuries to key players have eroded some of that belief, and as always, Warren Gatland's team selection has provided an additional twist to the debate.

  Shock inclusion

  Paul James' inclusion had not been expected and he is rewarded for his efforts in the week's training sessions.

  Props will tell you that you scrummage as an eight and not as an individual. True, but it is not an equitable division of labour. The tight head is by far the most important.

  Gatland has always placed a large emphasis on a solid scrum from which to launch his ball carriers and James' ability to provide that platform will be tested on each occasion.

  I think that James will fare well enough despite the obvious attention that he will attract from the All Blacks. But if things do go a bit "Vickery" then Wales must learn the lessons of the Lions this summer and make changes quickly.

  It is clear that Gatland still has a bit of a thing for Andy Powell. He has speed, quick feet and an ability to offload which distinguishes him from most backrowers and makes him capable of breeching defences.

  However, he is no stranger to the occasional howler and he is rarely a presence at the tackle area. It is normally the number eight who is afforded these freedoms and so it will require a share of responsibilities between Powell and Ryan Jones to ensure Martyn Williams is not left isolated.

  Luke Charteris fully deserves his opportunity and maybe he can be used much like Simon Shaw was for the Lions. Safe front ball can be guaranteed and Wales can move him to other parts of the lineout when required.

  Style of play

  I am very comfortable with James Hook at full back. He is a fine runner with a powerful boot.

  Wales have stated that they need to develop their pattern of play this season. Their style has not changed for two years and it needs to be refreshed somewhat.

  I suspect that their habit of 'going the same way' will be interspersed with changes of direction. I would also like to see some variation in the defence, not exclusively the out-to-in blitz.

  I'm sure that Jamie Roberts will be used creatively and that Shane Williams will be given licence to roam the pitch.

  I doubt if the kicking game will change that much because Wales want to keep the ball alive, have a high tempo game with lots of recycling so that they can create the all important mismatches. But occasional touch finders are not out of the question.

  I think that Wales can beat the All Blacks. I still think they're underdogs but there is a chance. Wales need to get ahead early to boost their own confidence and to expose any insecurities that New Zealand may have.

  I think whatever happens it will be close with less than a score separating the teams at the final whistle, and for the first time in over fifty years it will be Wales that take the spoils.

• Sarra Elgan
  Autumn Internationals

  

  All eyes on the international stage as the autumn series dawns

  The mighty All Blacks are set to be Wales' first opponents in the Invesco Perpetual autumn series and one who is looking forward to the first match is Sarra Elgan - S4C's Y Clwb Rygbi Rhyngwladol pitch side reporter.

  The threat of New Zealand

  "There is no better time to face the All Blacks than now - there may be a lack of confidence in the squad after a not so successful Tri Nations campaign. There's a lot of pressure for them to come over here and perform well."

  Ryan Jones

  "One player who has caught my eye with a string of great performances for the Ospreys this season is the captain Ryan Jones.

  "It's fair to say that Ryan has stepped up and silenced his critics with a number of powerful performances for the region. I'm glad he's playing well and has managed to hold on to the Welsh captaincy. The team as a whole feel confident when their captain is playing at his best, there's no doubt about that. He has an important role as the team's talisman, which adds an extra hub to the squad against New Zealand."

  Losing Mike Phillips, Adam Jones and Lee Byrne to injury

  "Although losing these three influential players is a big blow to Wales, you have to look at the positives. It can only be a good thing that the younger members of the squad like Craig Mitchell, Martin Roberts and Dan Lydiate are tested and experience rugby at the international stage. The can take that experience back to the regions. I do think that Wales will miss Mike Phillips' physical presence and Dwayne Peel's skills in the crucial scrum-half position."

  Testing times against Samoa, Argentina and Australia?

  "To have the opportunity to play against some of the world's most powerful rugby nations is a real test to the squad - especially those who lack experience - there's not a lot of turnovers in these matches and as real rugby nations, there is an added passion to the way they play.

  "If we can avoid injuries and take the game to New Zealand in the first test, then the performance can add to the confidence and build momentum."

  Autumn Internationals on S4C

  "Viewers can enjoy live coverage of Wales' Invesco Perpetual autumn series on S4C, where a number of familiar faces will join our presentation team to preview and analyse the games, including Gloucester fly-half Nicky Robinson, and ex-Wales internationals Gareth Edwards, Gareth Davies and Ieuan Evans.

• Q and A Gareth Edwards
  Autumn Internationals

  One of Wales' rugby legends looks forward to the encounter between Wales and New Zealand this weekend. The game will be broadcast live on S4C, Saturday, 7 November, 16:45.

  The try you scored against the All Blacks with the barbarians in 1973 is known as one of the best ever scored. What do you remember of the experience?

  I appreciate that try now much more than what I did at the time. There was pressure on the Barbarians because the All Blacks wanted revenge after the Lions tour of New Zealand in 1971. We were also performing in front of a home crowd which put added pressure on us.

  It was early in the match and the most important thing for us was winning the match - I never thought a try would come from that move. Remembering back, I realise that the try was significant because it added to the points and the victory. But it's nice to think that people all over the world still get enjoyment out of that try today.

  What makes New Zealand such formidable opponents?

  One thing about New Zealand is that they're desperate to win every game. They're mentally and physically strong. I remember many occasions when we were close to beating them but lost in the last minutes of the game because they don't know how to give up. Rugby is New Zealand's national game, just like Wales, so the expectations are always high.

  How will Warren Gatland's squad cope with the threat of a team that Wales haven't beaten in 56 years?

  It's hard to believe that Wales haven't won in such a long time. It's vitally important that we play at our best and use the experience of our best players because the All Blacks tend to create something out of nothing and change the shape and direction of games.

  Do you think Wales have a chance of beating the All Blacks this year?

  This is one of the best chances for many years. There might be uncertainty in the New Zealand squad after they missed out on the Tri Nations Championship this year. There are problems between coaches and players and there are a number of injuries in the squad.

  But it's not going to be easy. New Zealand will be preparing for the 2011 World Cup from now on because it will be on their own soil. They'll want to prove that they can win the competition again. This will give them an added boost against Wales.

  Do think Galtand has made a wise choice with the squad?

  Because of injuries, the squad is the best I would have expected by Warren Gatland. Dwayne Peel has found himself in a cruel situation between club and country, and with Mike Phillips out, this would have been a great opportunity for him against the All Blacks.

  The inclusion of young players like Martin Roberts, Dan Lydiate and Craig Mitchell gives them a fantastic opportunity. I'm sure they'll take the chance on the international stage and we'll see if they're up to it.

  What about the loss of injured players?

  The hardest thing is that players who have been on form over the last couple years are out because of injuries. Mike Phillips; Lee Byrne, who always plays beautifully, and tight head prop Adam Jones are amongst the best in the world in their positions. But the game is so physical these days, you have to expect injuries.

• Wales v New Zealand - Shock return for Osprey James
  Autumn Internationals

  Paul James returns to the Wales squad with a bang as Warren Gatland chooses the Ospreys prop to fill the tight-head role in the front row. James has impressed in training over the past week and has edged ahead of fellow Osprey Duncan Jones.

  James Hook takes over full back duties as both resident number fifteen's Lee Byrne and Morgan Stoddart are out with long-term injuries.

  Blues' scrum-half Gareth Cooper will start the game with Martin Roberts, the Scarlets number nine, provides cover on the bench. Dwayne Peel won't be released by Sale because of a club and country struggle and Mike Phillips is another long term casualty.

  Wales: James Hook (Ospreys); Leigh Halfpenny (Blues), Tom Shanklin (Blues), Jamie Roberts (Blues), Shane Williams (Ospreys); Stephen Jones (Scarlets), Gareth Cooper (Blues); Gethin Jenkins (Blues), Matthew Rees (Scarlets), Paul James (Ospreys), Alun-Wyn Jones (Ospreys), Luke Charteris (Dragons), Andy Powell (Blues), Martyn Williams (Blues), Ryan Jones (Ospreys, capt).

  Replacements: Huw Bennett, Duncan Jones, Bradley Davies, Dafydd Jones, Martin Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Tom James.

• Gatland announces autumn squad line-up
  Autumn Internationals

  Wales coach Warren Gatland has announced the squad that will face New Zealand, Samoa, Argentina and Australia in the Invesco Perpetual autumn internationals - with no place for established international players Ian Gough and Andrew Bishop.

  With a number of key players out of contention due to injury - including Lions tourists Adam Jones and Mike Phillips - James Hook and Leigh Halfpenny look set to fill the full-back void left by Lee Byrne.

  Dragons forward Dan Lydiate is set to win his first cap during the series and Ryan Jones retains the Welsh captaincy.

  Wales' squad

  Dan Biggar, James Hook, Shane Williams, Gareth Cooper, Jamie Roberts, Tom Shanklin, Tom James, Leigh Halfpenny, Martin Roberts, Stephen Jones, Jonathan Davies, Mark Jones, Dwayne Peel, Paul James, Duncan Jones, Craig Mitchell, Huw Bennett, Alun Wyn Jones, Ryan Jones, Jonathan Thomas, Gethin Jenkins, Bradley Davies, Andy Powell, Sam Warburton, Martyn Williams, Matthew Rees, Dafydd Jones, Luke Charteris, Dan Lydiate.

• WRU and regions reach a ground breaking deal
  News

  The WRU and the Welsh regions have reached a ground breaking agreement which will deliver more financial security to each Region and contractually ensure that rugby in Wales has a greater focus on recruiting, retaining and selecting talented Welsh players in future.

  Funding

  It gives the regions a basic £6m a year between them, an increase of £2.4m, with extra funding from competitions.

  Squads

  Match squads for all Regional games are intended to contain on average at least 17 players qualified to play for Wales out of the 22 or 23 named from now on.

  Internationals

  In future the Wales team will be able to play up to 13 international matches every year with the appropriate training release times built in.

• Haydn Tanner

  One of Wales' greats dies

  One of Wales' great rugby players died this week - 92 year-old Haydn Tanner from Gowerton.

  After winning his first cap for his country at the tender age of 18 in 1935, he went on to win 25 caps over a 15 year period. He was also Wales captain in 12 games.

  At 21, he was chosen to fly out to South Africa on the 1938 Lions tour where he played a prominent role.

• Analysis of the Wales Tour - Brynmor Williams
  Summer Tour

  Successful tour

  I'm quite happy with the tour on the whole. There was a clear improvement on Saturday at the Toyota Stadium, Chicago, where the Welsh team gave it all for the first hour. Their discipline on the field was better, possession was far better than against Canada, and they had variety in the play that kept the game fresh.

  Robinson and Biggar

  Nicky Robinson's kicking game was second to none, and the level of his kicking caused great doubt in the USA defence. When Robin McBryde report's back to Gatland, I'm sure he'll say that Robinson has a lot to offer in the future. Also, Dan Biggar made an impact against Canada - his experience of being with the international squad will help his development as a player. It must be remembered that he's only 19 years old.

  Young Players

  When Sam Warburton came on for the first time, as a substitute for Ryan Jones who had a head injury, he had an impact on the game. Warburton was all over the place, and he contributed 100%. Deiniol Jones was another young player who had an excellent game. This was the great chance for the young players to develop on the international stage - guys like Jonathan Davies, Warburton and Daniel Evans.

  World Cup

  Warren Gatland's aim is to build a strong and competitive squad before the next World Cup. He has one eye on this competition at all times. I predict that a lot of these players will play a part in his plans.

  Regions

  One thing that must be ensured is that these young players play a big part in the regions over the next few seasons. A balance must be found so that they can get the chance to develop further throughout the season - on a regional level or in the Welsh Principality Premiership. It's a challenge for the WRU and for the regions to make sure that this talent is nurtured.

• Summer Tour - Gwyn Jones
  Summer Tour

  If there were any Welsh players here in North America hoping they could make the Lions selectors regret not taking them to South Africa after the match against Canada, then they will be disappointed. The two tours are poles apart, both literally and metaphorically. Rugby is a fringe sport over here and the game struggles to fight for any column inches.

  Young talents

  It's difficult to generate the intensity in such an environment but that's the challenge the players and coaches must overcome. It was a stuttering performance against Canada and one which they will no doubt improve upon. Dan Bigger is a confident player who looks like he has the natural authority required to play fly half. Bradley Davies had a powerful game before being injured.

  Older heads

  As for the players on stand-by, Peel looked sharp at times and Ryan battled hard, but neither looked like they were in a class apart and should be playing on a different continent at the moment.

  I will be amazed if Wales do not return home undefeated from this tour. I cannot say the same about the Lions. I just hope by the time this hits the presses that the possibility of that still remains.

• Wales' squad v USA
  Summer Tour

  Five changes have been made to the side that beat Canada over the weekend...

  Dwayne Peel, Nicky Robinson, Mark Jones, Ian Gough and Gareth Williams come in to the squad that faces the USA at the Toyota Stadium in Chicago. The match is exclusively live on S4C on Saturday at 6.35pm.

  Backs: Daniel Evans (Scarlets); Mark Jones (Scarlets), Jonathan Davies (Scarlets), Andrew Bishop (Ospreys), Tom James (Cardiff Blues); Nicky Robinson (Gloucester), Dwayne Peel (Sale);

  Forwards: Duncan Jones (Ospreys), Gareth Williams (Cardiff Blues), John Yapp (Blues), Ian Gough (Ospreys), Deiniol Jones (Blues), Dafydd Jones (Scarlets), Robin Sowden-Taylor (Blues), Ryan Jones (Ospreys, capt).

  Replacements: Richard Hibbard (Ospreys), Craig Mitchell (Ospreys), Luke Charteris (Newport Gwent Dragons), Sam Warburton (Blues), Gareth Cooper (Blues), Daniel Biggar (Ospreys), Jonathan Spratt (Ospreys).

• USA v Wales - only on S4C
  Summer Tour

  S4C will broadcast Wales' Second Test on their North America tour live and exclusive on Saturday, 6 June.

  S4C's exclusive coverage

  In a special edition of Y Clwb Rygbi Rhyngwladol, Gareth Roberts and former Wales lock, Derwyn Jones will present live coverage of the match against the USA from the Toyota Stadium, Chicago.

  Huw Llywelyn Davies and former Wales captain Gwyn Jones will provide the commentary, with Cennydd Davies pitch-side and Brynmor Williams analysing the action.

  Caretaker coach Robin McBryde has chosen a mix of experienced international players and new faces to go on the tour. They include Dwayne Peel, Duncan Jones, Nicky Robinson, Gareth Williams and Daniel Evans.

  Opportunity for young players

  The summer tour is a perfect opportunity for some of Wales' most promising players to prove themselves on the international stage. Experienced squad members will be aiming to maintain their high standard and keep their international hopes alive for next season.

  Robin McBryde explains, "The game against America will be quite a challenge for us but I hope that the players will step up a gear on the international stage. I fully expect a physical encounter and we'll have to use our heads and our bodies to secure the victory."

  Following the live match in Chicago, S4C viewers can see highlights of the Lions' battle against the Cheetahs at Vodacom Park, Bloemfontain. Highlights of the Lions' mid-week clash against the Sharks in Durban will also be shown on Wednesday, 10 June.

• Wales' squad v Canada
  Summer Tour

  Wales caretaker coach Robin McBryde announced his squad to face Canada in the first test of their North America tour. Highlights of the match will be available on S4C this Sunday, 31 May at 6.30pm.

  Backs: Daniel Evans (Scarlets); Tom James (Blues), Jonathan Davies (Scarlets), Andrew Bishop (Ospreys), Chris Czekaj (Blues); Dan Biggar (Ospreys), Gareth Cooper (Gloucester).

  Forwards: Duncan Jones (Ospreys), Richard Hibbard (Ospreys), John Yapp (Blues), Bradley Davies (Blues), Deiniol Jones (Blues), Dafydd Jones (Scarlets), Robin Sowden-Taylor (Blues), Ryan Jones (Ospreys, capt).

  Replacements: Gareth Williams (Blues), Craig Mitchell (Ospreys), Ian Gough (Ospreys), Sam Warburton (Blues), Dwayne Peel (Sale), Nicky Robinson (Blues), Jonathan Spratt (Ospreys).

• Summer Tour on S4C
  Summer Tour

  Highlights of the first test against Canada can be seen on Y Clwb Rygbi Rhyngwladol: Canada v Wales on Sunday, 31 May. On Saturday, 6 June, full coverage of USA v Wales will be broadcast exclusively live on the Channel.

  While twelve of Wales' talented players will be in South Africa with the Lions, the rest of the Welsh international squad will be in North America for two Test matches.

  Robin McBryde takes the reigns as the caretaker coach and the tour is a unique opportunity for some of Wales' youngsters to shine on the big stage.

• Wales squad for North America Tour
  Summer tour

  Robin McBryde will lead the Welsh tour to North America at the end of the month, and he's chosen to include a mix of experience with some fresh faces to challenge Canada and the USA.

  Backs: Dwayne Peel (Sale), Gareth Cooper (Gloucester), Dan Biggar (Ospreys), Nicky Robinson (Blues), Andrew Bishop (Ospreys), James Hook (Ospreys), Jonathan Spratt (Ospreys), Jonathan Davies (Scarlets), Mark Jones (Scarlets), Richard Mustoe (Blues), Tom James (Blues), Chris Czekaj (Blues), Gareth Owen (Ospreys), Jason Tovey (Dragons).

  Forwards: Duncan Jones (Ospreys), Craig Mitchell (Ospreys), Richard Hibbard (Ospreys), Gareth Williams (Blues), John Yapp (Blues), Eifion Lewis-Roberts (Sale), Bradley Davies (Blues), Ian Gough (Ospreys), Deiniol Jones (Blues), Luke Charteris (Dragons), Dafydd Jones (Scarlets), Robin Sowden-Taylor (Blues), Ryan Jones (Ospreys, capt), Lewis Evans (Dragons), Rob McCusker (Scarlets), Josh Turnbull (Scarlets), Sam Warburton (Blues), Dan Lydiate (Dragons).

• Brynmor Williams' analysis
  Six Nations

  Italy v Wales

  It was unsatisfactory to say the least, wasn't it? The play was awkward and the pack were weak compared to the Italian forwards. Basically, there were too many changes. I can understand that Gatland wants to develop the squad but I don't think that this is the time, in the middle of the Championship. We should've gone to Rome and given them a thrashing, to be completely honest. But it may benefit us to head into the Irish game as underdogs – who knows, it may give the boys an extra boost.

  Wales v Ireland team announcement

  It's not too much of a surprise that Warren Gatland has made so many changes to face Ireland, who are looking for a Grand Slam title in Cardiff on Saturday.

  Gatland is a big fan of Gavin Henson and likes his style of play so his inclusion is no surprise. I agree that Henson is very talented but it's about time that he started to prove himself and justify the decision.

  The experienced partnership of Henson and Shanklin also returns and looks very promising, with both playing side-by-side during the 2005 and 2008 Grand Slams. But for them to have any effect on the game, they need to win possession - the pack have added pressure to supply this for them.

  I am rather surprised at Leigh Halfpenny's exclusion from the squad - he's a flexible player, but maybe Gatland think he lacks the experience at this level.

  Jonathan Thomas hasn't had much game time in recent months and this is probably the reason behind the decision not to play him on Saturday. I do think he's a talented player, injuries have been cruel to him recently.

  Wales v Ireland

  I'm confident that we'll win on Saturday - we have the ability to cause an Irish upset. We experienced shocks against the English and the French, but I think that we have a very strong squad on paper who have the experience to beat O'Driscoll and his team.

• Wales team announcement - Wales v Ireland
  Six Nations

  Today (Tuesday, 17 March), Wales Head Coach Warren Gatland announced the squad to face Ireland at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on Saturday, 21 March. S4C will broadcast the match live from 5.00pm.

  With the Championship and the Triple Crown within their reach, who will make the starting line-up for this crunch match?

  Backs

  15	Lee Byrne (Ospreys)
  14	Mark Jones (Scarlets)
  13	Tom Shanklin (Blues)
  12	Gavin Henson (Ospreys)
  11	Shane Williams (Ospreys)
  10	Stephen Jones (Scarlets)
  9	Mike Phillips (Ospreys)

  Forwards

  1	Gethin Jenkins (Blues)
  2	Matthew Rees (Scarlets)
  3	Adam Jones (Ospreys)
  4	Ian Gough (Ospreys)
  5	Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys)
  6	Ryan Jones (Ospreys) Captain
  7	Martyn Williams (Blues)
  8	Andy Powell (Blues)

  Replacements: Huw Bennett (Ospreys); John Yapp (Blues); Luke Charteris (Dragons); Dafydd Jones (Scarlets); Warren Fury (London Irish); James Hook (Ospreys); Jamie Roberts (Blues)

• Nigel Owens on the championship
  Six Nations

  The Bwrw'r Bar star looks forward to an exciting finish to the Six Nations Championship at the end of a week which saw Wales crowned World Champions in Sevens rugby.

  Nigel's reaction to Wales' win at the IRB Rugby World Cup Sevens

  I was a referee on the sevens circuit for four years and really enjoyed the experience. During my time on the circuit, Wales as a Union didn't quite take the competition as seriously as they do now - Wales have a winning mentality now to compete against the best teams in the world. The standard of play is improving year after year.

  Sevens rugby is a springboard for a lot of rugby union stars - with Andy Powell, Mike Phillips and James Hook among the stars who have developed their skills and won experience from it. This kind of rugby suits us Welsh better than anything.

  Whilst looking back on last weekend's tournament in Dubai, Wales deserved to raise the trophy because the team managed to beat off the likes of New Zealand, Samoa and Argentina - teams who traditionally play sevens rugby really well and who take the competition very seriously.

  Nigel looks forward to an exciting conclusion to the Six Nations

  v Italy

  I don't see it being an easy game - not by a long shot, and I think people who do think that will have a very nasty shock on Saturday. I think the Welsh boys will cope well following the changes that Warren Gatland has implemented. They train with each other day in day out so there's no reason why they won't cope. There's plenty of talent within the squad and the bench is strong and professional.

  v Ireland

  I see this game being the championship decider. If I'm honest, I can see Wales beating Italy and then competing for the Championship and the Triple Crown in Cardiff. I'm confident that we'll win that game too. Whatever happens, I'll be at that game as a fourth official and I'm really looking forward.

  Alun Wyn Jones

  He's a hard player and plays well in every game he features in. In fact, I don't think I've ever seen him having a bad game. He's talented enough and is sensible and rational enough to deal with the added pressure of being captain.

• Gwyn Jones on Italy
  Six Nations

  Italy are not a good side. The pack, although aggressive, cannot dominate the opposition without the driving line-out and Italy's attempt to replace the half backs Troncon and Dominguez has now entered its fourth year.

  The trip to Rome had at one time threatened to become a real test in the Six Nations but is in danger of turning into little more than a sight-seeing trip with eighty minutes of light rugby relief.

  That may sound harsh when you consider that Italy have matched us win for win in the last five years and that the only occasions that Wales have won was during Grand Slam campaigns. However, I don't think it is too unfair as Italy have failed to move forward in any sense. They look a tired team that is desperately hanging on to the teams ahead of them.

  Having had a good look at the way Italy have played recently, it is clear that they are lacking in many departments. For many years, the cunning half-back pairing of Troncon and Dominguez could often marshall the team and hide its inadequacies at the same time. But even if they were still playing today, I'm not sure whether they could galvanise the current squad.

  I admit that Gatland's selections did surprise me, especially when he announced in the aftermath of the Paris defeat that he would now make less changes than planned for Rome. It begs the question how many changes was he thinking of making? I think I'd better get the boots ready just in case!

  Saturday will be anything but unpredictable. The only way that Italy can pull off a shock is if they were to fluke an early lead with a lucky bounce or a shocker from the referee. But even then they would need some terrible Welsh indiscipline in the first half - a sending off or a string of yellow cards - for Italy just to hang in there.

  Wales are a good side despite the loss against France. It's time that we became confident as a nation that we can go away to places and win. Look at the confidence that New Zealand, South Africa and Australia have when they come over here. This is not overconfidence or even arrogance (that's England's job, or it used to be), this is us having rightly placed self belief.

  I think Wales will win by a fifteen points margin at least. That would do our points difference no harm whatsoever as we turn our attention to the decider in Cardiff next week and a showdown against the Irish.

Six Nations 2009 website

Lions 2009