Atmosphere a spur for Rowntree

Graham Rowntree has urged England's players to use the Millennium Stadium atmosphere as a positive when they challenge for Six Nations glory.

The roof will be closed in Cardiff, which should guarantee an occasion to savour as Wales and England do battle for the championship.

Although the Millennium Stadium will be a new experience for several of the England line-up, including captain Chris Robshaw, forwards coach Rowntree believes it is something the players can feed off.

"Ultimately, this young group of players have got to learn to cope with these challenges of playing away from home," said Rowntree.

"That's why you play the game, to play away in an atmosphere like the Millennium Stadium. I have played there a few times and it is a cracking atmosphere.

"But our lads have enough to worry about with their own jobs and the opposition. We don't need to worry about the atmosphere. In fact, they can use that as a positive."

Robshaw is relishing the occasion as he attempts to lead England to a first Grand Slam since 2003.

"The crowd are going to be passionate - English and Welsh fans," he said.

"We have quite a few friends and family coming to support us and a lot of supporters are coming over, so we are going to hopefully put on a good show for them."