The Welsh forwards coach says Wales are lucky to have such an experienced front row with 2009 Lions Matthew Rees and Adam Jones joining Jenkins in the front row at the Millennium Stadium tomorrow.
Jenkins and Jones boast three Grand Slams apiece and McBryde admits Wales will be looking at the scrum as an area where they can gain the upper hand.
“We’ve seen recently how big a part the scrum can play,” said the former Wales hooker.
“We’re happy to have the trio back playing together so we’ll work hard to gain an advantage.
“Gethin is a world class loose head prop. Everyone is aware of the influence he’s able to have on the team with regards to his leadership and that’s one of the things we’re looking for him to do tomorrow.
“He’s a very experienced player not only in the scrum but also around the field and he’s a good player to have around.
“He’s one of a trio up front and we’re looking to use that experience to the best of our ability tomorrow.”
Alongside Jenkins, the return of Adam Jones is a huge boost for Wales after the Ospreys prop missed the whole of the autumn series.
“When you’ve got a player of Adam’s ability the scrum becomes another weapon not just a way of restarting the game,” McBryde added.
“You tailor your approach accordingly as to how you use the scrum and how you prepare during the week.
“Everyone knows how important the opening game of the Six Nations is and we’ve got three away games after this so it’s vitally important we start this campaign in a positive way.”
You can follow all of the action for Wales v Ireland at http://www.wru.co.uk/live
