Wales will prepare for best of Ireland

JOE Hawkins says Wales are planning to face the best version of Ireland when the Guinness Six Nations resumes this weekend.

- By PHIL BLANCHE

Joe Hawkins looks dejected after Wales' defeat to France in the 2026 Six Nations

Ireland began the tournament with the two underwhelming performances in losing heavily away to France and squeezing past Italy at home.

But Andy Farrell’s side showed the ruthless edge that made them Six Nations champions in 2023 and 2024 by claiming a record 42-21 win over England at Allianz Stadium last weekend.

The victory kept alive Ireland’s title hopes and has made Welsh hopes of ending their three-year wait for a Six Nations win in Dublin on Friday night a whole lot harder.

“You can’t think what Ireland team’s going to turn up,’ said Wales centre Hawkins.