Wales team to play Ireland: Prem Star Dropped

In what was Steve Tandy’s side's finest performance since he took over as the national head coach, he is now in a position of whether to stick or twist with some of his selections.

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Some will be forced changes due to injuries, some will be easy calls, but there are some tough decisions to be made by the 46-year-old, who has only seen his side claim just one victory since taking over.

Despite a quiet afternoon last time out against the Scots, the Bristol Bears player, when given the opportunity with the ball in hand, still operates as one of his side's main threats when attacking.

Came as a real shock to see him not involved in Wales’ last Six Nations outing, but should make his return on Friday night. This comes after a poor international debut from Gabriel Hamer-Webb, as the Scarlets player should be Tandy’s go-to in the position going forward.

Off the back of his best appearances for Wales, James has showcased that he belongs on the international stage. His big ball-carrying ability will keep the Irish defence on their toes throughout the contest.

Still not reaching the heights of his standout autumn campaign, but is Tandy’s best option when selecting his inside centre. Offers a great deal on his side’s attack, and with James on his outside, that looks a formidable force in midfield.

There’s been a lot of question marks surrounding the winger's desire to still compete at international level. This came after underwhelming performances against both England and France to begin the championship. However, since then, he has silenced all of his naysayers, following a wonderful outing against Scotland.

With Matt Sherratt on Monday afternoon confirming that Sam Costelow will be unavailable for the clash in Dublin, it’s a no-brainer to hand Edwards back the 10 jersey. He needs to improve vastly and do so quickly; if Wales wants any chance of winning, he needs to be at his best.

The scrum-half has simply not been good enough this Six Nations, as you would expect more from a British and Irish Lions star. With that said, however, he is still Tandy’s best option here, but he will need to be at his best against Ireland.

It’s been somewhat of a slow, steady return to international rugby for the loose-head, and against Scotland, it was his best to date. When he’s on form, he can be Wales’ best player. He’s a great asset for Tandy’s side in attack, as he’s made some notable carries and got his side more often than not over the gainline.

Lake should be one of the first names on the teamsheet. Despite a shambolic afternoon in west London, the 26-year-old has since grown into the tournament. He’s starting to look more confident as the nation’s captain, and that confidence is also on show with his arrows when it comes to lineout time.

Wasn’t the most pleasing of afternoons against Scotland, but he did enough to remain in the starting XV. Scrummaged well and worked well around the breakdown, just needs to now reach the heights of his partners in the front-row. With Keiron Assiratti back involved in the Welsh set-up, Francis will surely step-up for the remainder of the tournament.

He’s been one of Wales’ top and most consistent performers this Six Nations. Solid in defence and has worked tirelessly throughout the first three matches. His standout moment so far came against Scotland when he made a thumping hit on Kyle Steyn close to his side’s whitewash.

It looks likely that Adam Beard’s time as an international player is nearing its conclusion, but with that, Carter has shone after making his first Six Nations start. Alongside Jenkins, Wales have a solid second-row partnership, as both work incredibly well together.

Came on early against Scotland due to Taine Plumtree going off injured, and was Wales' best player that day. He needs to be involved against Ireland as he looks for his first international win since 2021 against Canada.

It’s been a decent championship for the Cardiff Rugby back-row player. For Wales to have any sort of success at the Aviva, then Mann will need to be at his best once again. His best work comes from manoeuvring well around the breakdown area, at times a complete nuisance for the opposition.

What a championship Wainwright has had. Once again, he is one of Wales’ consistent performers, and it should be no different on Friday evening. He was battered and bruised against Scotland, and still put in an incredible shift. He’s the benchmark for everyone in this Welsh side to aspire to.

In the storied history of Rugby's Greatest Championship, exceptional leaders have emerged—warriors of various forms, be they agile half-backs, towering second rows, or fearless flankers.

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