SAM Warburton says Wales are desperate to lay down a World Cup marker by beating Ireland in Dublin – a feat to match turning over England at Twickenham.

Warren Gatland's men take on the Six Nations champions at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday afternoon in their last Test before the declaration of their 31-man squad for England 2015.

Wales are poised to name their big guns for the Dublin clash after a second string side was thrashed 35-21 by the Irish at the Millennium Stadium at the start of the month.

And Warburton, who has not played since taking on Zebre with Cardiff Blues in May, believes the Dublin date is perfect preparation for their World Cup group of death.

Ireland have not lost at the Aviva since being pipped at the death by New Zealand in November 2013 and since that heartbreak have taken the scalps of South Africa, Australia, Wales, England, France, Scotland (twice), Italy and Georgia.

"Getting a win in Dublin will take as much as it will going to Twickenham and getting a win against England and Australia," said the openside flanker.

"We are out of our comfort zone and going away from the Millennium Stadium will be a great challenge and good marker going into the World Cup."

Warburton is a shoo-in for the World Cup but everybody in the squad has been kept on their toes by Gatland's axing of the Lions trio of Richard Hibbard, Mike Phillips and James Hook.

"Warren has always emphasised that you should treat every game like it's your last for Wales," he said.

"That's something I always remember when I pull that jersey on; one thing that I would never do is take my place for granted.

"I don't think any other players would either because Warren is very bold in his selections.

"Everybody has to make sure they are in peak form to get in the 31-man squad and rather than it reflecting badly on the players who have been released, it just shows the strength and depth that such quality players haven't made the final cut."

There is certainly competition in the back row where Gatland's preferred triumvirate of Warburton, Dan Lydiate and Taulupe Faletau are being kept honest by Justin Tipuric, Ross Moriarty and James King. That makes an impressive display in Dublin essential.

"Everybody in the squad wants to play because it's the last chance before the cut and they are going to look at these games for selection for the first game of the World Cup," said Warburton.

- The Wales captain was speaking at the announcement of the renewal of the Welsh Rugby Union's agreement with PAS Pro Iso hydration drinks.
Pro Iso has been the official isotonic supplier for the WRU since 2014 and the renewal will see the national squad continue to consume the leading isotonic drink throughout training and matches.

The Pro Iso range, which is made in Wales, is formulated by the Wales national squad’s nutritionist Jon Williams.