5 talking points ahead of Autumn Nations Cup opener between Ireland and Wales
The Dublin fixture kicks off the new autumn international tournament.
The eight-team Autumn Nations Cup kicks off in Dublin on Friday when Ireland face Wales.
Here, the PA news agency looks at some of the key talking points heading into the game.
Ireland have the upper hand
Current form and recent history means Ireland are clear favourites to open their Nations Cup campaign with a victory at the Aviva Stadium. They go into Friday’s encounter following three successive victories over Wales, while their opponents have not won in Dublin since a World Cup warm-up game five years ago. Ireland are second favourites to win the Nations Cup behind England, and Wales are the bookmakers’ fifth-best title option, which appears an accurate reflection.
Wales desperate to end losing run
James Lowe takes centre-stage
Born in Nelson, New Zealand, Lowe joined Leinster in 2017 and qualifies for Ireland on residency. Head coach Andy Farrell has wasted no time handing him a Test debut. The 28-year-old wing made more than 50 appearances for Hamilton-based Super Rugby franchise the Chiefs and his Leinster impact has been spectacular, claiming 33 tries in 49 games. He helped Leinster win the Heineken Champions Cup and Guinness PRO14 during his first season, and he recently signed a new three-year deal.
Callum Sheedy ready to grasp his chance
Bristol fly-half Sheedy looks set to make his Wales debut off the bench in Dublin. The 25-year-old, who was born in Cardiff, also qualified for Ireland through his parents and England via residency, but he chose Wales. Sheedy shone for his club last season, playing a key role in steering them to the Gallagher Premiership play-offs and a European Challenge Cup final victory over Toulon, when he scored 22 points. He could prove a long-term successor to Dan Biggar in Wales’ number 10 shirt.
New tournament needs a big lift-off
