Wales won't choke on big stage

Wales coach Warren Gatland has dismissed suggestions that the pressure of the Grand Slam will have a negative impact on his young team when they square up to France next week.

Gatland watched his side cruise to their fifth straight win over Italy at the Millenium Stadium on Saturday, which narrowed the Six Nations title to a three-horse race between the Welsh, France and England - knocking Ireland out of contention despite their 32-14 win over Scotland.

Gatland's charges have impressed this season with their consistent intensity, and with a crunch clash with France who knocked them out of the World Cup looming next weekend many are expecting the young team to falter at the final hurdle.

However, Gatland remained bullish about their chances and explained that he has every faith in their maturity.

"It won't be difficult for us to get through this week at all. The guys have got their heads on. These young players are just taking these things in their stride.

"The players are well aware about the huge amount of hype but I would like to think they are in a good place and that the Welsh public are pretty happy with them," he added.