Warren Gatland has warned his Wales side that they are in for a ‘proper test’ when they clash with Scotland in Cardiff on Saturday.
Gatland, who only recently returned to Wales after being in New Zealand for the duration of the week mourning his father’s death, is expecting a backlash from the Scots, having triumphed over them 34-7 in the previous meeting between the sides earlier this year in the opening round of the Six Nations.
“We have to bring the right sort of physicality for a Test match against a Tier One nation,” he said.
“Hearing the stuff that’s coming out of the Scotland camp, they are talking about the fact they got their preparation wrong the last time we met.
“That puts things in perspective for us and means we have to make sure we are mentally on our game.
“It will be a proper Test on Saturday, I can guarantee that. We are not going out there to play festival rugby – we want to play attractive rugby, but smart and winning rugby.”
Gatland has handed a new cap to Luke Morgan on the wing and is hoping that the Ospreys man makes the most of his opportunity.
“Luke has come on and taken his chance with the Ospreys. He is scoring tries,” said Gatland.
“There is a little bit of X-Factor about him. We are looking for a bit more depth in the back three and Saturday is a great opportunity for Luke. We hope he makes the most of it.”
Scotland have not won in Cardiff since 2002 and centre Huw Jones, who has scored 10 tries in his last 16 international appearances, is relishing the propsect of ending their winless streak on Welsh soil.
“Whenever the Home Nations teams face each other it is always intense,” said the centre.
“It’s a sort of derby mentality, I suppose. I’m sure the intensity will be right up there,” he added.
“Wales are a tough team and they showed us that last time we went down there. Hopefully, Saturday will be a nice opportunity to get one back over them before the Six Nations.”