Bowe excited by Six Nations decider

Warren Gatland may have confessed Wales' antipathy for their Irish counterparts but Ospreys winger Tommy Bowe is undoubtedly an exception.

Wales coach Gatland lit the fuse for Saturday's title-deciding climax to the RBS 6 Nations by declaring that of all teams in the championship "the Welsh players dislike the Irish the most".

But any ill-feeling is not extended to Ireland winger Bowe, who has enjoyed a hugely successful season at the Ospreys and said: "They're a good bunch and I'm looking forward to a bit of banter out on the pitch and hopefully a bit of fun after it. People wrote me off going over to play in a Welsh region with so much talent but I've fitted in well and have played some good rugby."

Living in Wales has offered Bowe an insight into the pressure facing Gatland's side as they seek to defend their title by winning by at least 13 points.

"There's a huge expectancy in Wales," said the former Gaelic footballer, who has scored nine tries in 22 appearances for Ireland.

"With the talent they have and winning the Grand Slam last year they are still expecting to win the championship, whatever the margin is they have to beat us by.

"In their minds the Six Nations is still a very realistic possibility and there is obviously the Triple Crown too.

"There is no doubt they have the players who can do it if they perform and if the passes stick."