England coach Eddie Jones says his team will have to be at its ‘absolute best’ to beat Wales in Cardiff on 23 February.
England are at the top of the Six Nations log after bonus-point wins against Ireland in Dublin (32-20) and France at Twickenham (44-8).
Wales are second with eight log points, having beaten France in Paris (24-19) and Italy in Rome (26-15). Warren Gatland’s side is currently on an 11-Test winning streak.
The winner of the match between the two teams in two weeks’ time will therefore take a big step towards winning the Six Nations title, and it didn’t take long for Jones to start playing mind games.
‘We’re playing the greatest Welsh side ever,’ he said after his side thrashed France. ‘We’re going to have to be at our absolute best. Preparation starts on Wednesday.’
Jones also praised Wales coach Warren Gatland, who will leave his post after the World Cup.
‘You know you’re playing against a Warren Gatland side. He’s been at the top of the tree in European rugby for the last 15 years, through his club and country, and the Lions.
‘You’re playing against a tough, physical team. They contest hard at the breakdown. You’ve got to earn every point against them.
‘We’re looking forward to going down there. Should be fun.’
