Scott Baldwin to start for Wales against France
ByPA Sport
Updated 26/02/2015 at 17:04 GMT
Wales hooker Scott Baldwin will make his first RBS 6 Nations start on Saturday after edging out "top player" Richard Hibbard for the number two shirt against France.
Wales hooker Scott Baldwin
Image credit: PA Sport
Hibbard, a British and Irish Test Lion, has been something of a mainstay in Wales teams during recent times, increasing his tally to 35 caps.
But 26-year-old Ospreys forward Baldwin impressed during the 12-6 win against South Africa three months ago, and he has kept the pressure on Hibbard, resulting in this weekend's selection in Paris.
"It was a bit of a shock, but a welcome one," said Baldwin, reflecting on his call-up. "I am just looking forward to the opportunity now against the French.
"You want to be pushing for a starting place every week, wherever you are.
"I've been challenging 'Hibbs' for a few years now, first at the Ospreys and then getting involved with Wales, and it's something I hope keeps going for a long time. I will keep striving to push him every week.
"He has been great with me throughout my career, and we try to help each other now.
"If there is anything I can help him with I will, and vice-versa. We have a good relationship. Hopefully, it will help the squad and team at the weekend.
"He is a top player. He puts everything into every game, and if you had 15 Richard Hibbards on the pitch you would have a fantastic team.
"He was the first person to come over and congratulate me after the team selection, which is a mark of the man. I get on really well with him, and we will both continue to do our best for the side.
"It's a massive honour to start ahead of Rich, and I don't take it for granted, because he's a good player.
"It's not about just coming in to do a job. I have to be exceptional at the weekend to fill his boots, but that is a challenge I will look forward to."
Wales have claimed three successive Six Nations wins against France - they have also not conceded a try during that run - and stakes will again be high this weekend.
Whichever team loses, they know any hopes of Six Nations silverware will be over, with Wales having already been beaten by England, and France losing in Ireland.
"It is pressure, but it's good pressure," Baldwin added.
"We know we have to perform if we are to get the title back, but that is something we look forward to.
"We enjoy putting pressure on each other in training. That will make us a better squad towards the end of the campaign and looking forward to the World Cup."
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