Former England international Lewis Moody has challenged Stuart Lancaster's side to "smash Wales off the park" when the two sides meet in next month's Six Nations opener in Cardiff.

The February 6 clash is likely to play a key role in deciding who claims the title, and England will be desperate to avenge their 30-3 defeat in the fixture two years ago.

"I certainly think that in terms of continuity the Welsh backs have the upper hand but in class performers I think both teams are brimming with them," Moody told Planet Rugby.

"If England can smash them off the park in Cardiff and also nick some of their line-out balls that would stop their dangerous backs getting into it and their kicking game then we will have a good chance.

"The old cliche of the game will be won up front is right and for the England backs it is going to be the chance to stamp a claim for their places as there's still some doubt over spots such as nine and 10 not being nailed down at the minute."

Moody, who won 71 caps in a 10-year career with England, is now the director of rugby at Bradford on Avon.