Friday evening Six Nations fixtures have been criticised in some quarters but Wales coach Warren Gatland has given them his backing and says that they are good for the torunament.
The 2011 Six Nations fixtures were released today and for the first time in history Wales and England will open the tournament on a Friday night.
The idea of playing Six Nations rugby matches on a Friday night does not please many as they make it harder for away fans to attend matches and gives them less time to socialise before and after games.
"We've had Friday night fixtures for a couple of years now but it's still new for the tournament," said Wales coach Warren Gatland.
"As far as Friday nights are concerned, the players are used to them from the Magners (Celtic) League so it will make no different to us," he added.
"It may take some time to settle in as far as supporters are concerned but personally I would find it quite exciting as you can make an evening of it at your local rugby club, make it a real occasion then have the weekend to play games or do other things," the New Zealander said.
"People are still getting used to it and there will be some objections but I think it's good for the tournament."
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