Lydiate will be ready to defend Six Nations title

Dan Lydiate has no doubt that Wales will be “ready to go” for their RBS 6 Nations title defence this season.

Wales’ form in European rugby’s blue riband competition contrasts starkly with their record against southern hemisphere heavyweights New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. Since Warren Gatland took over as head coach in early 2008, Wales have won 22 out of 30 Six Nations games, landing three titles and two Grand Slams.

But the former Tri-Nations teams have collectively triumphed on 22 occasions from 23 starts, with Wales’ victory over Australia five years ago representing their solitary success under Gatland.