Wales put faith in Ospreys’ Baldwin
Hibbard, a British and Irish Test Lion, has been something of a mainstay in Wales teams during recent times, increasing his tally to 35 caps.
But 26-year-old Ospreys forward Baldwin impressed during the 12-6 win against South Africa three months ago, and he has kept the pressure on Hibbard, resulting in this weekend’s selection in Paris.
“It was a bit of a shock, but a welcome one,” said Baldwin, reflecting on his call-up. “I am just looking forward to the opportunity now against the French.
“I’ve been challenging ‘Hibbs’ for a few years now, first at the Ospreys and then getting involved with Wales.
“It’s not about just coming in to do a job. I have to be exceptional at the weekend to fill his boots, but that is a challenge I will look forward to.”
Wales have claimed three successive Six Nations wins against France — they have also not conceded a try during that run — and stakes will again be high this weekend.
Whichever team loses, they know any hopes of Six Nations silverware will be over, with Wales having already been beaten by England, and France losing in Ireland.
“It is pressure, but it’s good pressure,” Baldwin added.
“We know we have to perform if we are to get the title back, but that is something we look forward to.
“We enjoy putting pressure on each other in training. That will make us a better squad towards the end of the campaign and looking forward to the World Cup.”
Wales flew to the French capital on Thursday armed with an inside dossier on some of Les Bleus’ line-up.
Five of the Wales match-day 23 — Leigh Halfpenny, Jonathan Davies, Jamie Roberts, Luke Charteris and Mike Phillips — play club rugby in France and they have addressed their squad colleagues about the opposition.
“It is obviously a very useful tool to have when players are able to give you an insight,” said assistant coach Rob Howley.
“As much as the analysis from a coach’s perception, for players to play and train alongside other players week in, week out — Jon Davies with (Wesley) Fofana, and Jamie with (Brice) Dulin — and to give an insight of the French mindset throughout the year, is really important.
“It was good this morning when all our French-based players spoke in front of the whole squad and gave us an insight, maybe as well as the physical strengths and weaknesses, technical and tactical ability, but also a psychological mindset of French players.
“You can only use that, hopefully, as a tool for motivation for the players and go out and use that additional information hopefully in the right way and make it a benefit.”
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