It’s that time of the year when the rugby world is abuzz with predictions, analysis, and the palpable excitement that accompanies one of the sport’s most anticipated events, the Six Nations. Well, ‘If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em’, right? Here’s our take on how each side will perform.
Italy
While Italy have quelled calls for their relegation from the Six Nations with several promising performances in the past couple of years (earning their first win in 36 games against Wales in 2022), they have a long way to go before their odds of winning the tournament improve.
Wales
It’s no secret that Wales have been struggling in recent years. They’re now battling to prove themselves in a tournament where they’ve historically performed well. For the 2024 Six Nations, Wales will no doubt focus on getting a mid-table position that will help with their rebuilding process.
Scotland
Scotland, now Hogg-less, look to the joint leadership of both Finn Russell and Rory Darge to try and top the third-place position they achieved last year. While their fixture against Ireland at home in Dublin will undoubtedly be their toughest game, replicating a win against rivals, England, at Murrayfield may be a more realistic goal. Who knows, their home advantage may pay off against France…
England
After claiming third-place in the 2023 RWC, Steve Borthwick has managed to prove himself as a promising coach. However, fans are now expecting a bit more creativity in their play — something they will have to do without their talisman, Owen Farrell. If this is something England have addressed, then they could very well be the dark horse of this year’s Six Nations.
Ireland
As last year’s Grand Slam winners, Ireland, enter this year’s Six Nations as second-favourites. After an early exit from the 2023 RWC, and losing captain, Johnny Sexton, to retirement, Ireland are eager to prove themselves. However, there will be a massive France-shaped wall in their way.
France
France, arguably, are the team with the most to prove in this year’s Six Nations. After all, they suffered from an early exit from the 2023 RWC, which they hosted. They are 2024’s favourites, but they’re missing star players such as Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack.
Conclusion
France and Ireland enter the 2024 Six Nations as favourites, but England and Scotland are both capable of causing an upset. While predictions on who will win the 2024 Six Nations tournament are not conclusive, one thing is for sure — you’re not going to want to miss it!
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