Get ready for an exciting showdown as Wales aim to break their 14-game losing streak in the Six Nations!
A New Challenge for Wales
Wales has made some strategic changes for their upcoming match against Ireland in Dublin. With three key alterations, they're determined to turn the tide and end their losing streak. Fly-half Dan Edwards, who previously started against England and France, steps in for the injured Sam Costelow. Additionally, back-rower James Botham makes his first start this season, replacing the injured Taine Plumtree. And finally, Ellis Mee takes Gabriel Hamer-Webb's spot on the wing, who made his Test debut in the recent narrow loss to Scotland.
A Tough Road Ahead
Head coach Steve Tandy acknowledges the challenges ahead. "This week, it's all about building on our performance against Scotland. Playing away from home presents a unique environment, and our focus is on improving our game from the last match. We want to double down on our improved defense against Scotland when we face Ireland." Tandy added, "Ireland keeps the ball in possession, passing it around a lot, so we know we have to step up our game."
Scrum-half Tomos Williams will partner Edwards, with Joe Hawkins and Eddie James forming the center pairing. The back three consists of Josh Adams, Ellis Mee, and full-back Louis Rees-Zammit. Aaron Wainwright, James Botham, and Alex Mann make up the loose trio at the back of the scrum. Dafydd Jenkins and Ben Carter are the lock pairing, with hooker Dewi Lake captaining the side, flanked by props Rhys Carre and Tomas Francis.
A Potential Debut for Louie Hennessey
Tandy may also give a debut to 21-year-old Louie Hennessey, who plays for Bath. "Louie was unlucky not to get his chance in the autumn, but he's trained exceptionally well. He had a hand injury at the start of this campaign, but his recovery and performances in training have been impressive," Tandy said.
Ireland's Dominance
Ireland has dominated recent encounters with Wales, winning eight of the last nine matches. Wales last won in Dublin in 2015, so they face a formidable challenge.
Uncapped Doak and Timoney's First Start
Uncapped Ulster scrum-half Nathan Doak could make his Ireland debut, named on the bench by Andy Farrell. Teammates Tom Stewart and Munster center Tom Farrell could also make their first appearances in the competition, named among the replacements. Ulster's Nick Timoney has been selected for his first Six Nations start in the back row, replacing Josh van der Flier at openside flanker following impressive performances in the opening defeat to France and subsequent victories over Italy and England.
Ireland's Starting XV
Ireland's starting lineup includes Jamie Osborne, Robert Baloucoune, Garry Ringrose, Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale, Jack Crowley, Jamison Gibson-Park, Tom O'Toole, Ronan Kelleher, Tadhg Furlong, James Ryan, Tadhg Beirne, Jack Conan, Nick Timoney, and Caelan Doris (c).
A Special Moment for Ireland
Farrell said, "We have two special milestones in the squad this week. I'd like to congratulate Nathan on his first international selection. Nathan has impressed with his consistent and quality play in training and with Ulster. We're determined to make this a memorable week for him and his family. Also, Jamison reaches the 50-cap mark, an incredible achievement for a top-class professional. Both players are excited to play in front of a packed Aviva Stadium on Friday night."
Wales' Starting XV
Wales' starting lineup features Louis Rees-Zammit, Ellis Mee, Eddie James, Joe Hawkins, Josh Adams, Dan Edwards, Tomos Williams, Rhys Carre, Dewi Lake (c), Tomas Francis, Dafydd Jenkins, Ben Carter, Alex Mann, James Botham, and Aaron Wainwright.
The Big Question
Can Wales break their losing streak and upset Ireland? Will the changes made by Wales pay off? And what impact will the potential debuts have on both teams? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! It's sure to be an intriguing battle.
