The Millennium Stadium could be rocked to its foundations on Saturday when Jamie Roberts and Ma’a Nonu collide in a clash of the giants in the opening clash in this autumn’s Invesco Perpetual Series.
Roberts was the outstanding player on the summer’s British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa while big hitting Nonu has established himself as a pivotal member in the heart of the New Zealand defence while being a huge influence in attack.
Wales coach Warren Gatland belives the Blues centre could play a major role for Wales if they are to break their 20-match losing streak against the mighty All Blacks.
“We are not trying to put too much pressure on him, but when you have a player who is that big and strong, you’ve got to use that,” explained Gatland.
“As the All Blacks will be looking to use Ma’a Nonu against us at times, we’ve got to use the size and strength of Jamie as well.”
Gatland also said Wales will be keeping a close eye on All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw, who is regarded as the best flanker in world rugby and king of the rucks.
“We are playing against one of the best players in the world in Richie McCaw,” he said, “We’ve got to be as physical as we can be with McCaw, and hopefully make him feel like he has been in a game. That’s part of the plan.”
