Personal agenda on both sides of the Irish Sea for Six Nations clash

Mar 7 2008 by Delme Parfitt, South Wales Echo

Five key duels

Gethin Jenkins v John Hayes

IF there’s one department where Ireland are there for the taking it is in the scrum.

And Gethin Jenkins’ ability to get the better of John Hayes in the tight will be crucial to hammering home any advantage.

Hayes has been around a long time but his continued presence at 34 says it all about how this a problem position for Ireland.

Jenkins must be at his imposing best.

Ryan Jones v Jamie Heaslip

The young Heaslip has made a huge impression as a dynamic runner in this tournament and lends a touch of class to the Irish back row.

But there are few better than Jones when the skipper is at his best, though he has not been so far in this campaign.

The time is right for Jones to deliver a true captain’s performance at Croke Park.

Alun Wyn Jones v Paul O’Connell

O’CONNELL is a giant at second row, in stature and presence and unless Wales stand up to him, he could dictate the entire game.

It is Wyn Jones’ job to do that.

The Ospreys man has been out injured for the last two games.

He is going to have to come back in with a bang.

Mike Phillips v Eoin Reddan

THE Irishman is a latecomer to the Test scene, and will be well known to his Wasps coach Shaun Edwards.

Reddan has been impressive and is keeping Peter Stringer out of the side.

But with respect, if Phillips is firing on all cylinders Reddan isn’t fit to lace his drinks.

Tom Shanklin v Brian O’Driscoll

TWO people who have been at the forefront in their respective positions for years.

Both are strong, fast, skilful and in reasonable form.

It will be about who makes the most of their opportunities, but both of these men can win a game with one piece of magic.