Pressure on to hit the ground running

It is a game that has the atmosphere of a finale rather than a championship opener but that makes Ireland’s need to hit the ground running in Cardiff today (1:30pm) all the more relevant.

For the second year in a row, Ireland must start their RBS 6 Nations campaign against Wales but the dismal beginnings that have blighted Declan Kidney’s side over numerous Test series cannot be allowed to continue at the Millennium Stadium this afternoon.

Anything other than a fast start from Ireland against the champions will have far-reaching consequences because a fourth consecutive loss to the Welsh would not only end dreams of a Grand Slam to repeat the now fading glory of 2009 but also a Triple Crown and possibly even the title.