Injury-hit Welsh face ‘a big ask’

SHAUN EDWARDS accepts that Wales face “a big ask” defensively when try-hungry Ireland arrive at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

Only title favourites England have scored more tries than Ireland in this season’s RBS 6 Nations Championship and Wales defence specialist Edwards believes Ireland will continue with their expansive approach as they look to maintain a remarkable record in Cardiff that shows just one defeat since 1983.

He said: “Ireland were red-hot in the first-half against Scotland, and they also scored three tries against France, which was an exceptional effort. While they struggled a bit with their handling in Italy, they still created a number of chances. They are playing expansive rugby and scoring tries.