History is on the line for Ireland in Cardiff where victory could pave the way for far greater celebrations.

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Ireland are on the brink of their best run of form in international rugby after beating England two weeks ago to claim a 10th successive win, matching their feat set between 2002 and 2003.

Jordan from Belfast Exiles believes the 'Joe Schmidt effect' is the main catalyst for this superb run of form that sees them unbeaten since March 2014.

"Joe is an absolute perfectionist and that shows on the pitch. The aerial bombardment and the work-rate at the breakdown is remarkable," he said.

"Wales have grown into the competition. They started off badly and this promises to be a thrilling contest," Jordan added.

"After the victory over England, Ireland will have lots of momentum".

Ireland have made just one change to the side that beat England with No8 Jamie Heaslip returning from three fractured vertebrae suffered against France while fly-half Jonathan Sexton and flanker Sean O'Brien both passed fitness tests.

"All eyes will be on Sexton and Heaslip. I think it will be more of an open game, and I expect to see Zebo and Bowe come off the wings and get involved," he added.

Jordan predicts a tight contest, but Ireland will nick it in a one score game.

Meanwhile, Warren Gatland has kept faith with the team that won 20-13 in Paris a fortnight ago, which means Sam Warburton will become Wales' longest-serving captain, surpassing Ryan Jones when he leads his country for a 34th time.

Gatland said: "It's a massive game for us. If we win then we're still in the Championship going into the last week. But we have to be mentally right for Ireland. In the last few games against them we just haven't been on the edge," said Gatland.

"Ireland are currently third in the world and have found a style that is proving very successful, so we're under no illusions what is coming our way. We just have to be ready and able to cope with the pressure."