RUGBY league legend Shaun Edwards says it feels like Wembley week ahead of a Challenge Cup final as Wales prepare to take on England, writes Chris Kirwan.

It may only be round two of the Six Nations but Saturday’s clash at Principality Stadium will have huge title ramifications after both teams enjoyed opening weekend successes.

Wales will make a huge statement if they end the champions’ 15-Test winning streak and defence coach Edwards says excitement is already building.

The Wigan legend made 11 Challenge Cup final appearances, his first as a and won nine times at the home of English football.

The build-up to the meeting with the old enemy is bringing memories flooding back for the Warriors icon, who won 32 major honours as a player.

“I got a text from my old boss Maurice Lindsay, the Wigan chairman during the glory years. I said to him that it feels a bit like Wembley used to feel like,” said Edwards.

“You go down the street and everyone is wishing you good luck. It’s got that atmosphere in the build-up and these weeks are the reason why you play rugby.

“I mentioned that to the players after the Italy game, that we have a fantastic week building up to a huge challenge against the form team in world rugby.”

Edwards believes England are hot property and has hailed the way they are being managed by Eddie Jones.

The Australian has pondered this week why the English are “petrified” of playing Wales in Cardiff.

“I think that’s just another way of Eddie throwing down a challenge to his players,” said Edwards.

“It’s smart coaching. He’s a clever bloke is Eddie. It’s great for the game. You want characters in the game.

“You’ve seen it in the past with football managers like Brian Clough,. They were a bit outspoken. It’s good for the game and good for you guys (in the media) as well.”Wales are working on the basis that the Principality Stadium roof will be closed for Saturday’s game after Jones said he didn’t mind either way.

“Eddie has said he isn’t bothered if it’s open or closed. I like his attitude,” said Edwards. “That’s the kind of bloke Eddie is, good on him.

“We are just waiting to see what they say. It’s just an unusual situation where the opposition decide, but that’s the way it goes.”