Irish may have the edge – but Wales World Cup hopefuls have plenty to prove

TWO mix-and-match sides will take the field at Cardiff today when Wales face Ireland in a Rugby World Cup warm-up clash.

The Irish cruised to a 35-21 victory when the countries met in a similar fixture at the same venue four years ago.

But this time they are coming off a Twickenham trouncing against England, while Wales beat the same opposition a week earlier.

We assess the head-to-heads for the match at the Principality Stadium...

Hallam Amos 7 v 6 Will Addison:

It’s moment-of-truth time for Amos. With one back-three place probably left to be claimed in Wales’ squad for the World Cup, he could be forgiven for believing a convincing performance would seal the deal. He has the class to take the opportunity. Few spoke of Addison as a potential international during his seven seasons at Sale, but the versatile back has proven quite a hit since joining Ulster, blessed with pace and an eye for a gap.

Wales will need to avoid kicking loosely to him.

Owen Lane 6 v 7 Andrew Conway

Lane has plenty of promise and will trouble Ireland if given opportunities with ball in hand.

The new cap is unproven at this level and will need to be switched on defensively.

He will also need to be wary of trying too hard on his debut, but that he has potential is not in doubt. Conway repeatedly delivers for Munster and is a strong performer in the PRO14. The 28-year-old remains on the fringes at Test level, but the hosts would be wise not to give him chances.

Scott Williams 7 v 6 Chris Farrell

Anyone who remembers Scott