Wales v France: What you need to know ahead of kick-off
Wales are set to take on France on Saturday at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. It will be Wales’ third game of the 2020 Six Nations.
France are currently unbeaten in the championship with two wins from two against Italy and England. Wales will be hoping to bounce back from defeat against Ireland in Dublin in their last game.
Whether you are watching the game from the stadium, local pub or your living room, here is everything you need to know ahead of kick-off.
Head-to-head
Wales last played France in the quarter final of the 2019 World Cup in Oita, Japan.
In a tense match Wales booked themselves a place in their first World Cup semi final in eight years by winning 20-19.
Wales were helped by Sebastien Vahaamahina's stupidity after he saw red for inexplicably elbowing Aaron Wainwright in the face.
The last time Wales faced France in the Six Nations saw Wales beat them 24-19 after fighting back from 16-0 down at half-time in Paris.
Overall, the two teams have battled out 98 test matches since 1908. Wales have won 51 of those whilst France have won 44. There have also been three draws between the two nations.
What time is kick-off?
The action will start at 4:45pm on Saturday in front of a full stadium in Cardiff.
How can I watch it?
The Six Nations coverage is shared between ITV and BBC. This match will be live on BBC 1 and S4C from 4pm.
Got a ticket?
If you are watching the game from the stadium, gates will open at 1:45pm. All supporters are advised to get into the stadium early, to avoid missing kick-off.
Those attending the match are strongly advised to leave large bags at home and to also be mindful not to bring in items like glass bottles and flares before traveling into the city.
Driving into Cardiff?
If you are driving into Cardiff there will be several road closures. There will be a full city centre road closure from 1:15pm until 7:45pm.
The following roads will be closed from 1:15pm:
Duke Street
Castle St
High Street, St
Mary Street
Caroline Street
Wood Street
Central Square
Westgate Street
Quay Street
Guildhall Place
Golate, Park Street
Havelock Street
Scott Road
Some other roads will be closed in part from 1:15pm, including Kingsway, Cowbridge Road East and Churchill Way.
If you live locally, it may be better to cycle or walk to avoid traffic.
Where can I park?
There will be event day parking available in the Civic Centre and at Sophia Gardens - they both open at 8am and close at midnight.
There will be a Park and Ride at Leckwith which you can pre-book or pay on the day.
Disabled drivers are advised to use Sophia Gardens but can also find parking at various private car parks.
What about if I am coming by train?
Passengers planning on taking the train are advised to plan their journey in advance.
Network Rail is advising all customers that restrictions will be in place due to the damage caused by Storm Dennis.
The Aberdare train line will be completely closed for the event and it is envisaged that this route will re-open up to Mountain Ash by 5am on Monday February 24.
Repair work is continuing to take place on both the Ebbw Vale line, as well as the Abergavenny to Hereford route and these works are expected to be completed by 5am Friday February 21 (Ebbw Vale) and 4am Saturday February 22 (Abergavenny – Hereford).
All remaining Valley Line routes into Cardiff will be operating for the event.
If you are staying overnight in Cardiff, there are planned engineering works on Sunday February 23 but there will be a bus replacement service for a number of routes.
Who is in the team?
[**There are two changes to Wales’ starting first fifteen**](http://Two changes to Welsh side ahead of clash against France) with Gareth Davies and Ross Moriarty now included.
Come on Wales!