BBC Sportrugbyunion

SIX NATIONS RECORD (2000-08): 4, 4, 5, 6, 4, 1 (Grand Slam), 5, 5, 1 (Grand Slam).
After just eight wins in five years, Grand Slams in two of the last four years. But fifth place both years in between.

COACH: Warren Gatland. Stunning first year in charge for the Kiwi "Gatfather", who instilled enough belief to end a 20-year losing run at Twickenham and turn World Cup flops into Grand Slam heroes. With Shaun Edwards and Rob Howley by his side, more progress followed with the autumn success over Australia.

CAPTAIN: Ryan Jones. Strangely, after the glory of last year, is under pressure for his place with the emergence of Andy Powell at number eight and return of Jonathan Thomas from injury. But more strong ball-carrying and level-headed leadership could see him become Lions captain.

RISING STAR: Leigh Halfpenny. If Powell, an overnight sensation at 27 in the autumn with his aggressive running, has given Wales another dimension up front, then wing Halfpenny, 20, has had fans purring over his electric pace, balance and finishing. Could be a Six Nations sensation.

X-FACTOR MATERIAL: With partner Charlotte Church having just given birth to their second child, Gavin Henson might feel now is a good chance to take the singing spotlight, if he weren't such a shy and retiring type off the field. Lock Alun Wyn Jones, with the passion he puts into the national anthem, could step up.

PROSPECTS: If they get the opener at Murrayfield right, another Grand Slam bandwagon could be up and rolling, even with a Friday night trip to Paris mid-tournament. In the unfamiliar position of favourites, another clean sweep is a tall order, but a good bet for the title.

ODDS: 12/5 fav