LONDON: Wales, trailing by 20 points midway through the opening match of their Six Nations championship defence on February 2, have rebounded to such effect that they are now convinced the title is within their grasp.
After winning three away matches in succession the 2012 Grand Slam champions can retain the title if they beat England by eight points on Saturday.
Seven points would suffice if England do not outscore the hosts by at least three tries.
Their captain Sam Warburton was then injured for the win over France and relegated to the bench for the next match against Italy.
Restored to openside flanker for last Saturday’s win Warburton had an outstanding match in attack and defence and his return to form has softened the loss of Ryan Jones.
Jones captained Wales in the last two matches in place of Warburton. His likely replacement is Justin Tipuric, who combined effectively with Warburton after coming on as a replacement for Jones. AFP
