Six Nations Odds: Wales

Wales
Best Odds: 3/1 Sportingbet
World Ranking: 8th
2011 Six Nations: 4th

Verdict: With an international campaign that started back in August, the extended rugby season has taken its toll on Wales. Matthew Rees has been ruled out of the opening game in Dublin, whilst Gethin Jenkins is already missing from the front-row.

Alun Wyn Jones and Luke Charteris are missing from the second-row, whilst there are also injury concerns surrounding centre Jamie Roberts, fly-half Rhys Priestland and flanker Dan Lydiate. With the problems stacking up, Warren Gatland then needs to fill the gaping hole left by retired winger Shane Williams. 

Having emerged from the World Cup with enormous credit, there is a suspicion they are priced on their performances in New Zealand rather than their current predicament. Wales will need some of their bright young talent, like giant Cardiff winger Alex Cuthbert, to step up and plug the gaps.

One to watch: Alex Cuthbert

Cuthbert scoring for Cardiff against Racing Metro.