2026 Six Nations: Hutch's Round 4 Predictions

I had another 2 out of 3 last week thanks to another England defeat, but surely they won't lose three in a row?

Here are my Six Nations predictions for Round 4.

Ireland v Wales

Wales looked much improved against Scotland with Sam Costelow orchestrating proceedings at fly-half, but I fear for them here without the injured Costelow and yet another change at fly-half.

By contrast, Ireland will be buoyed by their thrashing of England at Twickenham, and they are back in the title race - a bonus point win here will be the target, and they should get it.

Prediction: Ireland by 23

Scotland v France

The Scots aren't out of the championship either with only 1 defeat so far, and they sit second in the table - a win over France at Murrayfield would put them in pole position for the title. Can they do it?

Almost certainly not, in my view. France look a level above everyone else, and with Mathieu Jalibert back at fly-half, they should be back to their fluent best and they'll have too much for the Scots.

Prediction: France by 9

Italy v England

Could this be the first-ever win for Italy over England? Yes I think it could. On form, they are the better side with an improving trajectory, having beaten Scotland and been competitive against Ireland and France. They have never beaten England before, but this is a great opportunity with the visitors soul-searching after two heavy defeats, and with a raft of changes to the lineup.

I still think England are favourites, based on their outstanding form over the previous year, prior to those defeats. Fin Smith's recall at fly-half should offer enough of a reset, and with the benefit of two weeks in camp to sort themselves out, and on paper, the England side is stronger than the Italians.

It could be another uncomfortable afternoon for England fans, but I'm expecting them to edge it.

Prediction: England by 4