Preview: Wales v Ireland Wales suffer late Cooper setback Ireland side at end of road

"They're an older, ageing team while we are a lot younger, so we're hoping for a fast, open game - and may the best side win," Henson told BBC Sport Wales.

"I'm pretty confident we can end the Ireland jinx. I didn't know we hadn't beaten them in Cardiff since 1983.

"I hope in 30 years time everyone will see us as legends like the '70s sides, but we've got to get that win first."

Henson, 23, will be faced with the man regarded by many as the world's leading centre, Brian O'Driscoll.

Defiant O'Driscoll eyes title

"I've never played directly against him and I'm quite new to the number 12 shirt so it'll be a real test for me, but one I'm looking forward to," said the Ospreys star.

"I've had a quiet last few games so I'm looking forward to a big one this time."

If it comes down to a kick from me to win it I won't worry Gavin Henson

Henson's confident attitude will come as no surprise to those who have followed the career of the former International Rugby Board young player of the year, or who witnessed his nerveless late penalty to win the opening game against England.

Since that moment of glory it has been Henson's heavy tackling in the centre that has been more notable than any moments of sublime skill, but the Bridgend-born youngster says he has relished the entire experience.

"I haven't really felt the pressure. I don't read the papers or watch much sport on television", said the player, who has attracted headlines for his relationship with singer Charlotte Church and his revelation that he shaves his legs before games.

"It's also been a short week since the Scotland win. I've been nursing my hamstring and we've all just been concentrating on our injury niggles.

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"I've really enjoyed the Six Nations. I've never known anything like it before and I'm just sad it's coming to an end.

"Things have been crazy in Wales since the first game, the hype is amazing, but now there's expectation there as well.

"I've only come in this season, but the squad has been together for a couple of years and there's a real feeling that we don't want to let this one get away from us.

"We've had our eye on winning something ever since that first game with England.

"The team spirit is unbelieveable, it's like a family and it's just great to come in every day.

"It's the biggest game of everyone's career. I'm just looking forward to playing, and if it comes down to a kick from me to win it I won't worry. I'll just go through my usual routine."