Here are the five key features that I think could make this one of the most compelling Six Nations in quite some time.
Italian resurgence
Just how refreshing is it that going into this tournament and we're not talking endlessly about the rather tiring ‘relegation’ debate on Italy. Their momentous victory in Wales last spring, that was backed up by a win against Australia in the autumn has really created a new feeling around this Italian side. Under the experienced stewardship of Kiwi Kieran Crowley this youthful and exuberant side have finally got the 6N monkey off their back. Heading into a tournament for the first time without searching for a win in the first time in 8 years may be just the difference they need to put a few consistent performances in. Yes, they have a tough start this year with welcoming France in the first week then heading to Twickenham for round two. But they’ll surely have their eyes on hosting Wales in Rome. Good be one of the games of the tournament.
Battle for 3rd
The best of the rest, behind Ireland and France is likely to be one of the most intriguing aspects of the championship this year. There currently isn’t much to put between Wales, Scotland and England. And with the unknowns of Borthwicks England and Gatlands Wales, and the inconsistency of Scotland, these three sides could throw up some surprise performances. If one of them beat either France or Ireland it could well decide who lifts the trophy on the 19th March. Home performances as ever will be imperative for a good campaign. Wales will need the Principality rocking and Twickenham and Murrayfield will need waking up after downbeat autumn atmospheres. The battle for 3rd will be captivating, and the return of Gatland just adds that perfect spice.
Dublin Week 2
Not much more needs to be said to get you excited for the Six Nations this year than by saying ‘France in Dublin Week Two’. This is set to be an absolute humdinger of a match. I don’t think anyone will be telling me to downplay my excitement. This is the first time ever in the Six Nations that the top one and two sides in the world face off. I can see this match being similar to an old classic RSA V NZ match in the years 2010-2015. I’m clearly not the first or last person to predict the winner of this game will lift the trophy. A grand slam beckons for whoever snatches it and its hard not to look past Ireland at home.
Law Tweaks
A few new law tweaks going into this years tournament could also be very interesting. World Rugby have emphasised time wasting as a key priority for officials this year, aswell as speeding up the TMO and limiting the amount of water carriers. All very welcome additions in my eyes. No huddles for lineouts may cause particular disruption in the early rounds. But the question that remains is how tightly it will be enforced and how consistent different officials will be? If we are to see a repeat of Bernard Foley v NZ last summer then it’ll certainly cause a stir. Ultimately a fast game is a good game and more ball in play means more action. This is definitely something to keep an eye out for through the rounds.
Squad depth
While this might not be unique to this years Six Nations, squad depth will have significant part to play. England in particular are already missing a few key players and this could seriously damage their chances early on. The aged old questions of Sexton (pun not intended) will surely come to the fore. Can he start and stay fit for 5 matches in a row? Wales are also only a few injuries away from being an average side to becoming a poor one. Frances squad depth on the other hand is the envy of the Northern Hempishere. Only really at 9 would you say they could be short were Dupont to pick up a knock. Squad depth will always and will continue to be one of the determining factors in the tournament but more so this year with head coaches having one eye on the World Cup this September. Building squad depth now could be either determinantal or instrumental.
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