High-flying Ireland eye historic win in clash with Wales
Under New Zealander Joe Schmidt, Irish are on an impressive streak as they look to notch 11th victory on the trot
History is on the line on Saturday for Ireland in Cardiff where victory could pave the way for far greater celebrations.
Ireland are on the brink of their best run of form in international rugby after beating England two weeks ago to claim a 10th successive win, matching their feat set between 2002 and 2003.
Under New Zealander Joe Schmidt, Ireland have risen to third in the world rankings having gone 12 months unbeaten. This current run began last March against England and has included wins over South Africa, Australia and two tests in Argentina.
Ireland are currently third in the world and have found a style that is proving very successful, so we're under no illusions what is coming our way
Now Wales present possibly the biggest remaining hurdle towards only a second grand slam in 67 years before facing Scotland, ranked seven places below them, in the final round. However the Millennium Stadium will hold happy memories for many of this team given their last clean sweep in the Six Nations, in 2009, was here in Cardiff.
More surprising still is that they have achieved this remarkable sequence immediately following the loss of arguably their greatest player. Any fears the departure of Brian O'Driscoll would blunt either their effectiveness or cutting edge have been swiftly dispelled.
It will be another of their modern-day talismans that takes centre-stage this week when captain Paul O'Connell wins his 100th cap for the Emerald Isle.
The 35-year-old veteran of three British & Irish tours began his test career with a try on his debut during a 54-10 rout of Wales in 2002 that was to see Graham Henry sacked as head coach of the Welsh dragons.
