Six Nations: Round 1 Predictions

The Six Nations is upon us, and I’ll be sharing my picks here each week to encourage some debate ahead of the weekend.

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Here are my Round 1 predictions:

France v Wales

I quite enjoy a Friday night kick off for the Six Nations, although I know it’s not everybody’s favourite. This should be a great occasion, although it has the potential to be very one-sided. Wales have always struggled with their strength in depth, and with some injury issues going into this tournament, they have named two front row forwards for their first start, as well as a relative rookie at fly-half. Away in Paris could be a baptism of fire, and although there is more experience in the outside backs, it could get ugly if there’s a retreating pack and no platform to build from. Prediction: France by 23

Scotland v Italy

Scotland were beaten in Rome last season, but they should win this one at Murrayfield and get their tournament off to a strong start, and they’ll want a bonus point too. Italy had a relatively poor Autumn, with heavy defeats by Argentina and New Zealand, and only a narrow win over Georgia to celebrate. They may well spring a surprise and they’ll be targeting this match for a potential win, but I think Finn Russell and Scotland will be too good. Prediction: Scotland by 13

Ireland v England

England head to Dublin as underdogs and a little short of confidence after a poor November campaign. They also tend to start slowly in the Six Nations, and this is a tough task away at the tournament favourites. England have lost their opening match in 4 of the last 5 tournaments, and the only win was by 3 points over Italy last season. With low expectations, England might do a little better, but Ireland are chasing a 3rd title in a row, and should be too strong. Prediction: Ireland by 9

How do your predictions compare?