England v Wales 4 Key Battles | James Hook on BBC Sport

England v Wales 4 Key Battles | James Hook on BBC Sport

England v Wales 5 Key Battles – Venue: Twickenham Stadium Date: Saturday, 7 March Kick-off: 16:45 GMT

Coverage: Live on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Wales & Radio Cymru, with text commentary on BBC Sport website and app.

Highlights: Watch on BBC Sport website and app after match.

Click here to start watching

Wales have not won at Twickenham in the Six Nations since 2012, but England head coach Eddie Jones and his men will be under no illusion about the size of challenge that awaits them this weekend.

Victory for England will secure the Triple Crown and keep alive their hopes of a third title in five years, while Wales will be motivated to avoid a third consecutive Six Nations defeat under new coach Wayne Pivac.

   

Ex-Wales fly-half James Hook look at four key battles that could decide the match.

Fly-half – George Ford v Dan Biggar

They are different 10s. Ford is more attacking and he takes the ball to the gain line and engages defences much more. Biggar is more of a threat aerially and his winning mentality is right up there. He is very confident in his own ability and he drives the team on.

Wing – Anthony Watson v Liam Williams

It’s a huge battle. Watson has magical feet and Williams has been picked as part of a fantastic back three to defuse those high kicks from England. It’s a tried and tested back three.

Second row – Maro Itoje v Alun Wyn Jones

Always a tough battle. Itoje grows every game and Wyn Jones keeps delivering. They are two winners. England are strong up front so you know which way they will go but just having Wyn Jones around, with his mentality and presence, is so important for Wales. When he is not playing you notice it.

Number eight – Tom Curry v Josh Navidi

It’s a big call by Wales. Navidi gives 100% and he is a great ball carrier. He is a different player to Faletau, who is more of a natural number eight, but Navidi carries well and he is good on the floor. Curry is a great prospect. Jones is not afraid to put people in and he has been rewarded by his form for Sale.

Views taken from the interview: James Hook with BBC Sport’s Mantej Mann

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