Where it will be won and lost…

JUSTIN TIPURIC v JOSH VAN DER FLIER

WALES were blown away in Dublin last year because they could not slow down Ireland’s ball. The back-row battle will be huge. Wales have to match the world’s No 1 side there to have a chance.

Jac Morgan, Justin Tipuric and Taulupe Faletau against Peter O’Mahony, Josh van der Flier and Caelan Doris will be titanic. Van der Flier is fearsome at the breakdown. His fellow No 7 Tipuric has been playing supreme rugby for the Ospreys.

DAN BIGGAR v JOHNNY SEXTON

THESE two know each other so well. In his last Six Nations before retirement, Ireland captain Johnny Sexton, 37, is still excelling. Wales fly-half Dan Biggar missed the autumn campaign due to injury but has swapped Northampton for Toulon and remains a key figure for Warren Gatland. Biggar will be on Welsh kicking duties after the withdrawal of the injured Leigh Halfpenny.

JOE HAWKINS v STUART McCLOSKEY

IRELAND powerhouse Stuart McCloskey continues to fill the boots of the injured Robbie Henshaw with Bundee Aki on the bench. The Ulster centre is a fearsome carrier and poses a threat to Welsh rookie Joe Hawkins. Just 20, Hawkins wins only his second cap today after making his debut against Australia last autumn. The Ospreys back has earned praise from coach Gatland and has a good all-round game. A Six Nations baptism of fire awaits. How will he fare?