ROTATING THE bulk of a tightly knit squad of 28 since the outset of the championship, Warren Gatland has ensured a healthy level of competition for places within the Welsh set-up, but in making four changes yesterday he seems at first glance to have arrived at an altogether stronger team than the one that kickstarted the record 47-8 win over Italy.
Huw Bennett's return at the expense of the misfiring Matthew Rees should improve their lineout, and ditto Adam Jones for Rhys Thomas in the scrum at tight-head. Alun-Wyn Jones is recalled at lock in place of Ian Evans after recovering from the ankle injury he suffered in the tournament opener, against England at Twickenham, while Mike Phillips has predictably been reinstated at scrum-half following Dwayne Peel's erratic performance against the Azzurri.
"It's a strong side we are putting out to do a job," said Gatland. "It's a nice position we are in. A number of players have put their hands up in the first two games. I think we have got quite a bit of depth at the moment - we could have made different selections. This is the team we selected for this game."
Yet, to his apparent consternation, Gatland grew a little frustrated with continuing questions about his preference for the steadier and more experienced virtues of Stephen Jones ahead of the gifted James Hook, perhaps to have the more experienced Jones establish a firm footing in the game before unleashing Hook in the final quarter or so if Wales want to open the game up more.
"Let's not get obsessed about the two 10s. There seems to be an obsession with it. They are two quality players," said Gatland.
Asked whether the extra experience of 68-times capped Jones - Hook has made 23 Test appearances - was a factor, the Kiwi replied, "No." Instead, he proffered, "James has already produced for us on a big occasion, the game against England.
"Now the pressure is on Stephen to do the same in a big game against Ireland. We felt it was definitely an opportunity to start Stephen in this game but James will definitely get time."
With Wales the only team capable of winning the Grand Slam and now favourites to lift the Six Nations, Gatland attempted to play down expectations and sought to make Ireland favourites - which the bookies agree with.
"Ireland are a fantastic side. They have been a top-five team in world rugby for a number of years. We have an opportunity to measure ourselves and find out where we are. We go there as underdogs. They have lost only one game themselves, in the dying minutes against France, and Croke Park will be an intimidating place, but we must not be daunted by the task at hand.
"You only have to look at the number of caps they have throughout the side to recognise they will be a major force to be reckoned with and in Ronan O'Gara they have someone who can direct the game and really hurt opponents. If we don't keep a tight rein on him it could be a long day for us. We will be showing Ronan and his side the utmost respect."
