There is no shortage of mind-games that come from the Welsh camp in the build up to an international test. While Warren Gatland has a history of getting tongues wagging, his players follow the more trodden path of going on the charm offensive.
Welsh fly-half Dan Biggar has been in fine form in the last two seasons, finally winning the coveting no.10 position from Rhys Priestland. Now, Biggar is able to focus on his own game, which this weekend will involve facing the best out-half in the world. At least, that's what he's telling the BBC.
The camp are looking forward to Saturday's game immensely, with probably the best team in Europe coming to town, with some of the best players in the world on show, so it's a huge occasion and is very exciting.
We're fully aware of how difficult it's going to be, like I said, they've got some superb players. You want to test yourself against the best, and in terms of my position, Johnny Sexton is probably the best in the world at the minute. So, for me to be able to go up against him, and compete with him is a huge challenge, and one that we are going to have to be ready for.
It seems that Gatland isn't on the same page as his out-half. While Biggar is full of praise for his opposite number, the Lions head coach that selected Sexton in three straight tests has played down his importance. Gatland feels that it's not important whether Sexton plays or not, and is more concerned about his own team than the quality of those they will face.
We are not going to worry about Jonathan Sexton. We know the threats he poses in terms of his kicking game and accuracy. It is about getting our own game right and then start concentrating on Ireland, talking about individuals and the team and what we are expecting.
This can either be a sign of immense respect for Ian Madigan, Ian Keatley and the well-oiled machine that Joe Schmidt has created, or can be seen as a slight to Sexton's talents. We'll leave that one up to you. Either way, despite the fact that Wales are at home, Ireland are slight favourites with the bookies. Dan Biggar, for one, is happy for Wales to take the underdog role:
There's no doubt about it, Ireland will go into this game as favourites and rightly so, but we're very much excited by the challenge on Saturday.
