Wales' biggest game ever, says Jenkins

Wales skills coach Neil Jenkins did not mince his words when asked where Saturday's semi-final against France rates in Welsh rugby history.

"Probably the biggest (achievement) I would say. It is the biggest game certainly I have been involved in and certainly for the players and the same for Welsh rugby history,'' Jenkins said at a press conference Monday.

This marks the 89th time Wales and France will meet in a Test match and there is little to separate them. The Welsh have won 43 times, the French 42 and there were three draws. Wales also has a 1297-1295 edge in the points total.

"Obviously we know what France is all about," added Jenkins. "They are a fantastic side and they have beaten us the last three times we played them. We are under no illusions of what is ahead of us."

The semi-final pits a France team boasting plenty of experience against a Wales outfit with a heavy accent on youth.

No fear

However, Jenkins was quick to dismiss suggestions Wales' relative youth might make them vulnerable under the pressure of a Rugby World Cup semi-final.

"It could be a strength as well. The way they are playing they do not have a lot of fear at this moment in time,'' he said. "We have a good balance in our game now. We know when to kick, when to pass and when to run.

"I think they are taking this in their stride. We have a fantastic chance on Saturday as does France. We have lot to play for and this is a great opportunity."

The Welsh head into the match in relatively good health. Second row Luke Charteris and fly half Rhys Priestland are nursing injuries but are expected to be ready for the match.

Priestland may be crucial to Wales' hopes of getting past France as Jenkins believes the team that kicks well will have an edge.

Top teams

"In reality it will come down to the kickers and the French boy has been kicking well so far. They are two evenly matched sides."

This marks the first time since 1987 Wales has advanced to the semi-finals and Jenkins feels the road to Saturday's game at Eden Park began four years ago when a decision was made to play top teams more often.

"We have had some fantastic seasons and we have let ourselves down as well. We would like to keep some consistency and I think what we have done over the last four years is why we are here,'' he said.

"We played the All Blacks four times and South Africa and Australia and what we have done against the All Blacks ... we never won (but the experience) took us a long way in terms of where we are today and in terms of confidence. We do not fear anyone at this time."