No team in the history in the 120 year history of the tournament has ever won the title outright in three successive years. This could well be the first. The bulk of these players have been around for both championships and though they will be longing for the off-season after a grueling Lions tour and mentally fatigued from the internal strife at home, they will be up for it, you can count on that.

One need only look at the November selections to see that Warren Gatland is not shy of taking risks, but there are few, if any, taken this time around. Nearly every squad member would have been predicted from day one, and even in terms of his 1st XV selection there will be little mystery. The only real question looks to be whether he will opt for Rhys Priestland or Dan Biggar at flyhalf, and while neither are currently in top form they are both quality operators who can get the desired result.

Injuries will force any other selection quandaries, and Wales have a few to deal with. Ryan Jones, Bradley Davies, and Rhys Patchell will take no part at all, nor will a suspended Ian Evans. Eli Walker, Cory Allen, Liam Williams, Gethin Jenkins, and Jonathan Davies are all damaged and questionable, though it’s hoped all might come into consideration later on. Sam Warburton and Richard Hibbard look set to be deemed fit, but only just.

Wales now have strength in depth, however, and they won’t suffer much on the field. Luke Charteris is back in full flight to bolster the second row, Jamie Roberts is fighting fit and ready to lead the backline, and the mercurial Leigh Halfpenny has been freed of his contractual headache after signing with Toulon. Even Adam Jones, normally considered indispensible, could be covered with Rhodri Jones and Samson Lee prepared to step in.

There are two main obstacles that Gatland’s men must overcome to claim victory. The first is in Dublin on February 8, the second exactly one month later at Twickenham. On the face of it they appear daunting challenges but they are ones they have conquered before. It is a case of been there, done that, can they do it again?

With Italy up first Wales have a chance to work through their kinks without much fear of defeat. Ireland will be at home but with one less day to prepare and should Wales win there it will be their tournament to lose. Look for the men in red to create history and not only take the championship, but the grand slam as well.

HEAD COACH – Warren Gatland

It seems the only trophy left for Gats to win is the World Cup. He won’t mind adding another Six Nations title to his belt, however, and he’ll be intent on keeping his squad focussed on the job in the midst of the Welsh domestic upheaval. It’s not an easy task, but for a man of his experience it’s just another day at the office.

CAPTAIN – Sam Warburton

Or is he? With Warburton struggling with a shoulder injury Alun Wyn Jones will lead the side out against Italy, but the newest full-time WRU employee will be back soon enough to regain the armband. At his best he is a world class competitor, a level head beyond his years.

KEY PLAYER – Mike Phillips

While the young pretenders are queuing up to wear the no9 jersey, Phillips remains head and shoulders, both figuratively and literally, above the competition. His ability to tie in defenders on the fringes is unmatched and while his service might not be the quickest, his pass is long and accurate. He gives Wales a real point of difference when in the mood, and with no contract issues to worry about there’s no reason why he shouldn’t be.

ONE TO WATCH – Rhys Priestland

It’s no secret that the Scarlets pivot hasn’t been the same player since the World Cup. A couple years ago he was in terrible straights, barely able to hold his club spot and a shadow of his former self. He’s recovered his confidence considerably since then, but is still yet to reach his potential. This tournament could be pivotal in terms of his involvement in the World Cup.

FUTURE STAR – Jake Ball

Born in England of Welsh parents, the man with the exceptional beard moved to Australia as a teenager and was rising through the ranks of the Western Force when he was sounded out for a move to Scarlets. Since then he has been on a fast track to Welsh honours as the most physically imposing second row in the regions. With Bradley Davies out injured, Gatland has a ready-made replacement to add some steel from the bench.