Garry Ringrose believes Josh Adams' selection at centre gives Wales a 'fear factor' heading to Dublin.
Adams has scored 17 tries from 35 caps on the wing for the reigning Six Nations champions but will start in the no 13 jersey at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.
Ringrose will come face to face with the Welsh wizard and admitted: "I guess there's an element of unpredictability and maybe a fear factor because there's not huge amounts of tape to watch on him playing at 13.
"However, there is that relationship between the 13 and the winger and how they defend, especially with how teams are defending nowadays - someone who can defend on the wing like he can, it will be no problem in the centre for him I'm sure.
"There's that bit of fear factor of what to be ready for but that's always the case in terms of my own preparations in terms of how Wales attacking shape and defensive shape is on a bigger picture level, then figuring out how he fits into that, as well as his individual traits and what he's going to bring.
"That's the challenge on my front. He knows his way to the whitewash, especially in the Six Nations. So that's at the forefront of my mind."
Ringrose and Bundee Aki resume the formidable midfield partnership that put the All Blacks on the back foot in November and the Leinster star believes Ireland are a different proposition now compared to last year's championship, when they lost their opening game in Cardiff.
"We're a lot more comfortable and familiar with our game plan," said Ringrose.
"You have to go through the tougher days as a group to come out the other end, grow, and be better.
"We did that and we've had a few successful days that we've grown from as a result.
"The challenges won't stop coming and other teams have probably grown and evolved from 12 months ago as well.
"We have definitely taken a step forward but now we'll look to see what we can deliver when it comes to the Six Nations, which we know is incredibly tough. We will definitely be put to the test.
"It's an unbelievably big challenge and we'll have to be at our best if we want to get the result."
While Adams in a new position presents a different threat for Ireland, the selection of Mack Hansen for his debut will similarly have the visitors scrambling for information on the 23-year-old.
"I've been watching him for Connacht, how dangerous he's been and how good he's been on defence with his reads, and how lightning he is with the ball in his hand in attack," said Ringrose.
"I played against him as well, so learned lessons on that front, and luckily I've had the chance to train with him and build that relationship and connection which has been really good.
"I'm excited to see what he can do and delighted he's getting his opportunity."
In terms of what Ireland want to achieve in terms of silverware, Ringrose added: "It's unbelievably important.
"What's in our control is how well we can play and that's the only thing I've been focusing on and the group has been focusing on.
"It was cool to be involved in some of those results (November) but it's about growing and trying to be better at any opportunity we get.
"It's just incredible getting the chance to play in front of a full Aviva. We've had some special days in the past and thankfully I've been able to be a part of them, and that motivates you to try do it again.
"With this Six Nations set in the context of what's happened in the last two years, we're always talking about the light at the end of the tunnel, but it does seem like something you're allowed say now.
"This would be a great way to kick it off."
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