From no-hopers to champions-elect: How are Wales shooting for a Grand Slam?

Warren Gatland ended as he had begun his 12-year reign as Welsh coach with a third Grand Slam. Poor old Wayne Pivac had the look of a David Moyes stepping into the shoes of Alex Ferguson when he took over. But he now has his side one step away from glory

START OF THE JOURNEY: Leigh Halfpenny and Dan Biggar celebrate Wales’ win over Ireland on the opening weekend of the 2021 Six Nations. Wales transformation from no-hopers at the start of the competition has been little short of extraordinary. Picture: Inpho/Tommy Dickson

Alun Wyn Jones, the latest giant figure of Welsh rugby, can join some very good company this weekend if he can inspire his side to raise their game one more time and clinch a fourth Grand Slam for him.

Only five players in the history of the Five and Six Nations have played a part in four teams that have completed the iconic clean sweep – England duo Cyril Lowe and Dave Davies (1913,14,21,23) around WW1, two more English forwards, Ron Cove-Smith (1921,23,24,28) and Jason Leonard (1991,92,95,2003) and French lock Fabien Pelous (1997,98,2002,2004).