“It’s going to be a big ask”- Eddie James ready for Six Nations showdown against Ireland

Tuesday, 03 March 2026 at 18:27

byHarry Tovey

According to Wales centre Eddie James, Wales’ trip to Dublin on Friday evening (KO: 20:10) is going to be a challenge, as his side hunt for their first Six Nations triumph since 2023.

Despite falling to yet another Six Nations defeat last time out against Scotland at Principality Stadium, the loss brought a small sense of optimism with it. It was Wales’ best outing under Steve Tandy, but still, they occupy the bottom spot in the championship.

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Wales head to the Irish capital as underdogs, and this isn’t just because of recent form but due to Andy Farrell’s side's hammering of England last time out. That 42-21 drubbing came following two disappointing performances against France and Italy to begin their campaign.

Both teams enter the clash somewhat confident of recording a victory, but if Wales were to do so, they would end a 14-match losing streak in the tournament.

“We don’t go into any game thinking we can’t win,” began James.

“That is not the mindset to have in professional sport. We are definitely going there to put our best foot forward and have a go at them.

“Ireland are a top side, they’ve got threats everywhere and are a well-drilled team. For us, it’s building from our performance against Scotland and trying to implement that into Ireland.

“It’s going to be a big ask, but one we are looking forward to.”

James, who has been one of Wales’ best players this championship, has confidently taken his opportunity at 13 due to Max Llewellyn being on the sidelines due to injury. Against France, particularly in the second half, the 23-year-old was one of his side’s big carriers and shone throughout against Scotland.

Seemingly with ease at times, he gets his side over the gainline, and with his Scarlets team mate Joe Hawkins on his inside, it’s a formidable-looking centre partnership moving forward for Wales.

“I enjoy playing with Joe, and we have a good relationship off the pitch as well”, continued James, who will likely partner Hawkins in midfield against Ireland.

“The more games you play with any centre partner, the more you get a feel for what they do and hopefully get better. He reads the game well and understands it.

“He can carry and also be a ball player, while my strengths are my size and carrying ability.”

Tandy names his side for the meeting against Ireland on Wednesday morning, and will do so off the back of his side’s best performance for some time.

Although it was a gut-wrenching loss, Wales showcased a lot of promise against Scotland, which made the harrowing defeats against England and France feel like distant memories.

“We played with more intent (against Scotland),” added James.

“Not scared to make mistakes, attacking more with and without the ball. It was a big boost, and the confidence has gone up 100 per cent. Now, it’s about doing that away from home.

“We’ve shown we can do it in front of 70,000 at home, it’s about taking it on the road now to Ireland.

“We’ve got to bounce off each other, give each other energy, and be there mentally.”

Quiz: Can you name all of the Guinness Six Nations winning captains?

In the storied history of Rugby's Greatest Championship, exceptional leaders have emerged—warriors of various forms, be they agile half-backs, towering second rows, or fearless flankers.

Our latest quiz invites you to identify those who have captained their nations to Guinness Six Nations glory. It's worth noting that in certain instances, there may be multiple captains from the same year due to factors such as injuries and rotation.

Surnames only will be accepted.