Warren Gatland’s men will arrive in Dublin looking for a repeat of their stunning 16-12 victory two years ago – a win that sealed the Triple Crown and left them just 80 minutes from a second Grand Slam in four years.
But if Wales are to make it two wins in a row in the Irish capital, they are likely to have to do so against the same Ireland side that secured a late victory over England last time out.
Leinster’s Jamie Heaslip is Ireland’s only injury concern ahead of the fourth round of the Six Nations but he is expected to be fit for the mouthwatering clash with Wales at Croke Park on March 13.
The in-form No8 sprained an ankle last weekend but remained on the field for the full 80 minutes of Ireland’s narrow win at Twiockenham. Heaslip produced an outstanding display in the 20-16 triumph as he continues to add to his growing reputation as one of the best back-row forwards in world rugby.
Very little has been said about the extent of Heaslip’s injury but a statement from the Irish Rugby Football Union dispelled any fears that the 26-year-old would be out of action for any length of time.
“It is not thought at this point that it will keep him out of consideration for selection for the Wales game,” read the statement following Ireland’s second win in three 2010 Six Nations games.
Fellow Leinster star Brian O’Driscoll was a serious injury doubt when he left the field after 64 minutes on Saturday afternoon but he too is expected to be available for selection for the clash with Wales.
The Ireland skipper was stretchered off after receiving a knee to the head in an accidental collision with team-mate Paul O’Connell. But despite the initial concerns, O’Driscoll returned to the Twickenham pitch to join in with the celebrations at the end of a hard-fought victory.
“Brian took bit of a bang,” said Ireland head coach Declan Kidney. “It was nothing – he was out on the pitch at the end. He’s good and is enjoying the win as much as anyone.
“Brian just felt he should make Paul do the press conference to make up for him giving him a bang on the head with his knee! There’s no risk of concussion. He’s fine.”
