Enforcer Coleman relishing challenge

AUSTRALIA enforcer Adam Coleman is relishing the prospect of getting to grips with Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones.

Lock Coleman is one of the most aggressive forwards the Wallabies have had since Toutai Kefu put Ireland hardman Trevor Brennan away with a barrage of punches during a scrap at the 1999 World Cup.

Jones missed Wales’ 32-8 hiding against Australia a year ago through injury but will lead the country into battle on Saturday at the Millennium Stadium.

Wales haven’t won the opening fixture of an autumn series since beating Romania in Wrexham 15 years ago and Lions Test ace Jones has a key role to play if they are to end the hoodoo.

“Unfortunately he wasn’t playing last year when we faced Wales,” said Coleman.

“I watched him on the Lions tour (of New Zealand) and he played very well. I am sure he will shore up the Welsh forward pack.

“One of the things I enjoy the most about international rugby is you get to play some of the best players in your position from any country.

“That’s something every weekend when you run on the paddock, you walk off the field thinking that was a good experience.”

Although Wales’ losing streak against Australia stands at 12 and stretches back nine years, Coleman reckons Warren Gatland’s men will benefit from the Lions’ drawn series with back-to-back world champions New Zealand.

“I’m not sure of the number of Welsh players in the Lions but the more time you play with your teammates, the better the combinations are going to be week in week out,” said the 26-year-old.

“Definitely I feel like it will have a knock-on effect and I’m sure Wales will be red-hot this weekend.”