Stalwarts of the Six Nations

The Six Nations have continuously provided some end-to-end rugby action, attracting thousands to turn up for games with Six Nations tickets.

While we are at the peak of sports entertainment and rugby, the Six Nations have had their fair share of heroes adorned and worshipped by fans worldwide.

These individuals built a reputation for end-to-end rugby in their respective national jerseys.

They weren’t just players – they were icons that helped shape the game – decorated and captured the imagination of fans with their unique style and personalities.

Let’s look at some of these cult figures – unsurprisingly, all forwards – who have left an indelible mark in the Championship’s history.

Sébastien Chabal, France

Sébastien Chabal was admired for his formidable physical presence on the field and his wild appearance.

With his flowing mane, bushy beard, and thunderous tackling, he became the face of French rugby, earning him the nickname “L’Homme des Cavernes” (“The Caveman”). His explosive power, fearless style, and off-field persona added to his mythic status. Whether inspiring awe with his bone-crunching hits or captivating fans with his enigmatic demeanour, Chabal’s status is legendary.

He was a loving figure across Europe and by everyone present with Six Nations tickets.

Martin Castrogiovanni, Italy

Martin Castrogiovanni won an incredible 119 caps, but it might be his larger-than-life personality that he’ll be remembered for. His iconic beard and long hair may have given him a cuddly bear appearance, but it belied a ferocity in the scrum.

Castrogiovanni embodied the spirit of Italian rugby during its most challenging years. Off the pitch, his adventures -including partying with Zlatan Ibrahimović in Las Vegas – only added to his legend.

Whether it was his no-nonsense approach on the field or his questionable antics off it, Castrogiovanni remains an unforgettable character in the Italian consciousness – perhaps even more so now he’s a judge on the country’s answer to Britain’s Got Talent.

John Hayes, Ireland

Known affectionately as “The Bull”, John Hayes was the bedrock of the Irish scrum for many years. Unlike the other players featured here, his unassuming nature endeared him to fans.

Despite his massive frame, Hayes was known for his work ethic, humility, and dedication to the team. His contribution to Ireland’s 2009 Grand Slam-winning campaign is a testament to his importance to the side.

He remained humble throughout, often preferring the quiet life on his County Limerick farm after retiring in 2011.

Doddie Weir, Scotland

The late Doddie Weir’s infectious personality and giant frame made him a beloved figure in Scottish rugby and further afield.

A lock who played with joy and abandon, Weir was known for his improbable offloads and runs. Still, his penchant for humour endeared him to a broader audience when Living with Lions was released following the 1997 tour to South Africa.

His battle with motor neurone disease and the fundraising he spearheaded so successfully have only solidified his status as one of rugby’s true gentlemen, earning him the admiration of all those with Six Nations tickets and beyond.

Weir’s legacy – Scotland and Wales now compete for a cup in his name – is light-heartedness and incredible courage in the face of tragedy.

Joe Marler, England

Joe Marler is famed for his offbeat humour, colourful interviews, and quirky social media presence. His career has been characterised by moments of brilliance and headline-grabbing antics (often both on the field).

He has retired more than once from Test rugby and yet been lured back, a testament to the high regard successive England hierarchies have held him in. Despite the controversies, Marler’s free-rein talent, leadership, and scrummaging prowess have cemented his cult status in the sport.

Andy Powell, Wales

His infamous 2010 golf buggy incident, in which he was caught driving on the M4 after celebrating a famous Championship win against Scotland, firmly stitched Andy Powell into the tapestry of Welsh rugby characters.

In truth, this and other unfortunate incidents away from the rugby field overshadowed the back rower’s dynamic talent and genuine passion for the game. Since hanging up his boots, though, Powell’s distinctive charm and adventures, like his move to Merthyr RFC and coaching Brecon to the WRU National Plate title – celebrated uniquely – have kept him in the spotlight.

Tough Start for England at the Six Nations 2025

England will go to Ireland in the 2025 Six Nations Championship opening round before home clashes against France and their nemesis Scotland in a challenging first three games for Steve Borthwick’s side.

Officials confirmed the fixtures on Saturday. France will host Wales in the opening game on Jan. 31, Scotland will welcome Italy a day later, and Ireland—on course for back-to-back titles this year—will take on England in Dublin.

English fans will then have the option of looking for Six Nations tickets for the Italy game at home on March 9 and finishing their campaign six days later in Wales.

It is the first time since 2013, when Wales claimed a 30-3 win over the English to lift the trophy, that the pair face each other in the final round.

Scotland will travel to Twickenham on Feb. 22 to seek a fifth successive win over old foes England, something they have not achieved before. They will finish their campaign in France on March 15.

The start and finish of the tournament have been set to take place a week earlier. The first two rounds will be played on consecutive weekends before a two-week break for the third set of fixtures.

There will be another 14-day break before the fourth and fifth rounds complete the season.