Peter O’Mahony says ‘banana skin’ label is disrespectful to Wales

Ireland captain Peter O’Mahony says it would be disrespectful to regard rivals Wales as a “banana skin” ahead of Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations clash in Dublin.

Warren Gatland’s winless visitors arrive at the Aviva Stadium as major underdogs on the back of narrow championship defeats to Scotland and England amid a transitional period.

Reigning champions Ireland have not lost at home in three years and are in pole position to retain their crown following thumping bonus-point victories over France and Italy.

Munster flanker O’Mahony, who returns as one of seven personnel changes from the 36-0 victory over the Azzurri in round two, believes Wales’ players are a “different animal” when representing their country.

“I think a banana skin is a disrespectful term for this Welsh team,” said the 34-year-old.

“I’ve learnt the hard way a good few times; these people are very, very proud, and they grow massively when they pull on that red shirt.

“They’re a different animal, a different team, and I’ve been on the receiving end of some heavy losses to these guys a few times.

“There is transition, but it’s the Welsh 15 coming tomorrow, it’s no one else and I know from experience they’re an unbelievably proud nation, and they play big and earn the jersey.

☘️ The @IrishRugby side to take on Wales this weekend ⬇️#GuinnessM6N #IREWAL pic.twitter.com/uEue6Arevm

— Guinness Men's Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) February 22, 2024

“That’s what we’ll 100 per cent be expecting tomorrow.”

Ireland are chasing an 18th successive home win to equal England’s record, set in 2017, of 11 consecutive Six Nations victories.

Comments from the Wales camp suggest they will attempt to cause “chaos” in a bid to knock the hosts off their perch and register a