Ruddock fires early England warning

Wales have been handed the most difficult start to their RBS Six Nations title defence possible: a trip to Twickenham for the first game.

And coach Mike Ruddock has already been making sure his team must not be guilty of over-confidence.

"England will be gunning for revenge as they try to re-establish themselves as the top team in the northern hemisphere," Ruddock said to BBC Wales.

"And we must not forget they are still the reigning world champions.

"I remember we went very close two years ago and hopefully we can build on our recent success and go one better next February."

Wales may have it all to do next season. If they manage to agree a tour date with New Zealand, they will host all three of the Tri-Nations teams in November and December, and then face the five other northern hemisphere powers in the Six Nations in February and March.

Ruddock, pragmatic as ever, insists on taking all the challenges one at a time.

"Before we can even start to think about our title defence we have to focus on some very big Autumn Tests against the superpowers of the southern hemisphere," Ruddock said.

"If we can perform well against South Africa and Australia, we should have some confidence to take with us to Twickenham.

Wales' Six Nations schedule also sees them travel to Dublin - where they are traditionally strong - and play home games against Scotland and Italy before the finale against France in Cardiff.

"The real bonus next season is that we get to play three games at the Millennium Stadium," said Ruddock.

"If the support and the atmosphere are anything like they were in Cardiff for our wins over England and Ireland this season, then we will take a bit of beating."