Six Nations Showdown: Wales vs. England - A Battle for Pride and Title Dreams

High Stakes in Cardiff

Wales lock Dafydd Jenkins has issued a defiant message ahead of Saturday's Six Nations clash against England: "They can win the championship, so we can't be having that in Cardiff." The match at Principality Stadium carries immense significance, with England still in title contention while Wales fight to avoid a record-equalling 17th consecutive defeat.

The Exeter Connection

Jenkins, who plays club rugby for Exeter Chiefs, has extra motivation. Exeter teammate Henry Slade (currently injured) is part of England's squad. "If I go back to Exeter with a win, I'd be a lot happier... it'd be nice to hand out a bit [of banter]," he joked. The 22-year-old has become a defensive linchpin for Wales, making 28 tackles in their last match against Scotland.

England's Title Aspirations

Steve Borthwick's England arrive in Cardiff needing a win to keep their Six Nations hopes alive, though France remain favorites. England hooker Jamie George has dubbed this "Wales' World Cup final," acknowledging the hosts' desperation to salvage pride. Despite criticism of their playing style, England's results speak for themselves - they've won three of four matches this tournament.

Wales' Wooden Spoon Worries

In stark contrast, Wales risk finishing last for the second consecutive year:

• 16 straight Test defeats (worst run in history)
• 8 consecutive home losses
• 8 straight Six Nations defeats at Principality Stadium

Jenkins remains optimistic: "We're close in these games. The only statistic that matters is the final score."

Lions Watch: Personal Battles

This match serves as an audition for potential British & Irish Lions spots:

• Jenkins vs Maro Itoje/Ollie Chessum: A battle of locks with Jenkins praising Itoje as "one of the best in the world"
• Jac Morgan's leadership: The Wales captain leads the tournament in tackles (73) and meters gained in contact (89)

The Morgan Factor

Jenkins singled out flanker Jac Morgan as Wales' standout performer: "He's the best seven in Britain... When you see Jac doing special things, it inspires you." Morgan needs 12 more tackles to break Justin Tipuric's Welsh Six Nations record (84 in 2017).

Match Details

• Venue: Principality Stadium, Cardiff
• Date: Saturday, 15 March
• Kick-off: 16:45 GMT
• Coverage: BBC One, BBC Sport, S4C, BBC Radio Wales/Cymru/5 Live

The Final Word

With Wales seeking redemption and England chasing glory, this storied rivalry promises fireworks. As Jenkins put it: "This is the game you dream of playing as a kid." The question remains - can Wales turn dreams into reality?