Favourites position a novelty for Wales
Wales open their campaign against Scotland in Cardiff tomorrow buoyed by their displays against New Zealand and England last October even though both ended in defeat.
“We are in a situation now that we are playing some good rugby but we have to concentrate on our own game,” said Harris.
“If that makes us contenders at the end then it would be fantastic. But we have to forget about everyone else and just think about Scotland and see where that takes us.”
The fact that a Six Nations championship challenge is even being talked about is remarkable but shows how much self-esteem Wales have regained under coach Steve Hansen.
The New Zealander, who took over during the 2002 campaign when compatriot Graham Henry quit, is returning home after this season’s tournament to work with his predecessor who is now coaching the All Blacks.
Harris is confident the imminent departure of Hansen will not overshadow Wales’ Six Nations challenge.
“We are professionals and it’s irrelevant who the coach is,” added Harris, who will win his 22nd cap at the Millennium Stadium.
Harris believes new look Scotland will provide fierce opposition as they look to impress coach Matt Williams in his first game in charge.
“It’s a massive game for both countries,” he said. “Scotland have just had a complete reshuffle of their squad so they’re going to want to get off to a flying start. But we want to get off to a good start so there should be fireworks out there. Scotland are never easy and we’re going to have to play extremely well to come up with the points.
“There is a sense of expectation in Wales after the World Cup. We won three of our pool games and competed well against two of the best sides in the world.
“We’re going into a game for the first time in a while as favourites. When you start playing so you get that kind of favourite tag is the way we want it. We want people expecting us to win.”
Harris will be joined by Cardiff clubmate Martyn Williams, one of six changes to the team beaten by England in the RWC quarter-final with Hansen admitting it was one of the most difficult sides he has had to pick.
There is suddenly competition for places which is something not lost on flanker Williams, regaining his place at the expense of Jonathan Thomas who emerged as a major force Down Under.
“Competition is something we have not had for a long time,” said Williams. “What it shows is that you can’t sit back for a minute or you might be out.
“It was something we needed. It’s a nice position for Steve to be in, there are not too many certs in this team.
“I’m always nervous before the Wales team is announced but I was doubly nervous this time because of how well the boys played in the last game at the World Cup.
“But I’ve got to feel for JT because he was awesome at the World Cup. That guy is going to be a British Lion.”
Williams admits victory is vital tomorrow, adding: “The romantics will expect us to play like we did against New Zealand and England, but a win is what we want.
“As much as we would like to play with style, the most important thing is to win even if it is by 3-0.”
Italy coach John Kirwan has delayed his team selection for Sunday’s 6 Nations opener against England.
With a number of key players suffering from minor injuries, Kirwan will consult team doctors for an update on their condition.
He could be without three Benetton Treviso players after concerns arose over the fitness of Silvio Orlando, Santiago Dellape and Denis Dallan.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
