For Patchell, it’s going to one hell of an experience. I hope he’s got the bottle for it

THE Wales camp have refused to get drawn into a war of words with Eddie Jones after the England coach used his media conference to goad Welsh players.

Jones ignited the build-up to Saturday’s Six Nations showdown by suggesting the less experienced members of Wales’ side will feel the pressure in the Twickenham cauldron, singling out Scarlets fly-half Rhys Patchell, in particular.

Jones also claimed Wales were on a “self-proclaimed roll” and will be carrying a weight of expectation following their impressive win over Scotland in round one.

“Obviously I don’t know what Eddie said, but anyone wearing the No.10 jersey, they are going to expect to be put under pressure so nothing changes there,” said Wales forwards coach Robin McBryde at a press conference at Wales’ Vale of Glamorgan base.

Asked if Patchell has the temperament to cope with the pressure Jones alluded to, McBryde added: “I think so.

“Rhys is surrounded by a number of players from his region, that brings cohesion and a familiarity.

“Under the pressure of international rugby, hopefully it will stand up and as we saw last Saturday, it was good to watch.

“Eddie has said he is going to try and put us under pressure, and the same goes for us.

“Shaun Edwards has been banging the drum with regards to putting them under pressure. When the stakes are high, there is no quarter asked or given, and that is what it will be on Saturday.”

Asked if he had any further response to Jones’ comments, the former Wales hooker added: “I am not going to try with Eddie, I know better.

“I am going to stay out of that one.

“Listen, he has got a few things to get off his chest and hopefully he will feel better for it.”

Dragons second row Cory Hill took a full part in training after coming through his head injury protocols, while McBryde revealed that injured No. 8 Taulupe Faletau is making good progress in his return from a knee injury.

The British and Irish Lions star has started running and has been taking part in line-out drills.

Wales travelled to their Surrey hotel yesterday afternoon ahead of tomorrow’s game. ENGLAND coach Eddie Jones certainly had plenty to say for himself at his final press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Six Nations encounter with Wales at Twickenham.

He picked out a couple of Welsh players for special attention, with headline-grabbing comments on Rhys Patchell and Alun Wyn Jones.

Rugby correspondent SIMON THOMAS travelled up to Pennyhill Park in leafy Surrey to hear what the loquacious Aussie had to say. It wasn’t a wasted journey!