Evans orders Wales to toughen up for World Cup

Wales found out in the first Test against New Zealand last weekend that being unable to play high intensity rugby for 80 minutes and failing to adapt to events on the field is especially costly after the All Blacks ran rings around them in the second half to claim an emphatic 42-9 win in Dunedin.

That has led some to question the fitness of the Welsh squad, but Evans believes there is also a mental aspect to the problem as well.

"You can't hide the fact there is a lot of hard work ahead of them – both physically getting right and mentally getting in tune with the demands of playing the best teams in the world," he said. "I don't think it's purely down to fitness. I think psychologically it's as much of a problem as physically."

The second Test in Hamilton today will give an early indication of just how Wales have responded to last weekend's disappointing effort. Coach Warren Gatland has made two changes, with Dan Biggar replacing Stephen Jones at stand-off and Jonathan Davies coming into centre after Andrew Bishop broke his hand in last weekend's game.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry has made significant alterations to his XV. Full-back Israel Dagg (concussion), centre Conrad Smith (eye) and lock Anthony Boric (cheekbone) are all ruled out, while the other changes are a nod to the upcoming Tri-Nations.

Meanwhile, Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll insists there will be no room for complacency when he comes up against the inexperienced Rob Horne in tonight's clash with Australia at Suncorp Stadium.

Horne, who becomes the sixth different Wallaby to oppose O'Driscoll in his ten tests against the Australians, spoke earlier in the week of his great respect for the man who he considers the benchmark number 13 in the game.

"He'll get the same respect I'd give to any opposing outside-centre," said O'Driscoll. "He's obviously played well this year and it's flattering to hear some nice things, but you don't fall into that trap at the same time."