WALES ARE continuing to play a waiting game with their injured players ahead of Sunday’s game in Dublin. However, another name has been added to the confirmed list of absentees after hooker and former Wales captain Matthew Rees suffered a calf strain during training.

Rees is set to be sidelined for two weeks, which would also mean him missing the Millennium Stadium appointment with Scotland on Sunday week.

The 31-year-old had been in a battle for the number two shirt with Huw Bennett, although World Cup hooker Bennett was already expected to start in Dublin and win his 50th cap.

Wales coach Warren Gatland has already lost prop Gethin Jenkins, World Cup squad hooker Lloyd Burns and locks Luke Charteris and Alun-Wyn Jones due to injuries.

There are also fitness doubts over centre Jamie Roberts (knee), outhalf Rhys Priestland (knee) and flanker Dan Lydiate (ankle).

“They are progressing, but how quickly we are not too sure,” said Wales skills coach Neil Jenkins. “We will give them as much time as possible. We are hopeful of all the injured players recovering, but whether they make it is a matter of time. We will have a good idea of where we stand after today.”

It is thought uncapped 21-year-old Ospreys centre Ashley Beck has a strong chance of replacing Roberts, with James Hook the probable alternative to Priestland and Ryan Jones expected to feature in the backrow if Lydiate is sidelined.

Despite enjoying their most successful World Cup campaign for 24 years earlier this season, Wales arrive at the Six Nations having lost their last three Test matches.

“Sunday is a massive game,” said Jenkins. “Ireland are confident, and there is no reason for them not to be being at home, but it is a great challenge for us and it should be a special atmosphere and a cracking Test match.”

Gatland will announce his team for the Aviva Stadium encounter at midday tomorrow.