The wait is nearly over.
After narrow and nerve-wracking victories over 14-man Ireland and 14-man Scotland, tomorrow afternoon Wales take on England with the lure of winning the Triple Crown – if they can overcome their fiercest rivals.
Speaking with CJS News, award-winning sports journalist Carolyn Hitt said that she was “quietly optimistic” about Wales’ chances and looking forward to the game.
“Wales have everything to play for and I’m excited by the team selection” she said.
“We’ve got a cracking back-row and a cracking back-three and there is so much at stake for both teams and both teams have so much to prove at this stage of the tournament.”
Wayne Pivac has made five changes from the team that beat Scotland at Murrayfield two weeks ago, the most notable being the return of Jonathan Davies. The 32-year-old returns to the centre to partner George North, who will become the youngest player in the history of international rugby to win 100 international caps.
Winger Josh Adams returns to the starting lineup after being suspended for a coronavirus breach, and Kieran Hardy gets his Six Nations start at scrum-half, with Gareth Davies dropping to the bench.
In his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Pivac said that while the thought of winning the Triple Crown was “exciting”, he wanted a complete 80-minute performance from his team.
There are a total of 902 caps in the starting Wales XV, making it the most experienced in the country’s history.
England boss Eddie Jones has also selected an experienced side for the match, with Hooker Jamie George returning to the front row. One player who will be missing for England is Courtney Lawes, the forward will miss the rest of the Six Nations because of a pectoral injury suffered in training.
While Wales dream of a Triple Crown and a Grand Slam, England could still win the tournament if they emerge victorious. That alone should make the latest encounter between these two historic rivals all the more enticing.
You can watch Wales v. England on either the BBC or S4C at 4:45 pm tomorrow.