The conclusion of the 2023 Rugby World Cup marks the beginning of a new chapter in elite-level international rugby. The France-hosted tournament was poised to be Europe’s introduction to the global stage, as both the Les Bleus and reigning European Champions Ireland were heavily favored to lift the Web Ellis trophy for the first time in their respective histories. However, fate had other plans.
Neither team made it past the quarterfinals and as such, perennial contenders South Africa and New Zealand clashed in the Stade de France showpiece, with the Springboks emerging victorious. The exhilarating game concluded with just one point between the two teams, South Africa’s third consecutive victory with such a slender margin of victory. But they didn’t care one bit as they successfully retained the trophy that they won so impressively in Japan four-and-a-half years ago.
Only England managed to reach the semifinals among the top teams in the Northern Hemisphere. Both the aforementioned contenders were eliminated in the quarterfinals, as was Wales. Despite their recent progress, Scotland failed to advance beyond the group stage, just like the Italians.
However, as a new year approaches, so does a renewed sense of hope. The highly anticipated Six Nations tournament will kick off on February 2nd with an exciting clash between the French and the Boys in Green at Marseille’s Stade Vélodrome. Let’s take a look at what we can anticipate from each side once the action begins.
England
England, captained by the exceptionally skilled Owen Farrell, consistently proves to be a formidable force in every rugby tournament. Despite facing a succession of setbacks over the past few years, they advanced to the semifinals however, a lack of discipline in the second half cost them a second straight World Cup final appearance.
Steve Borthwick’s team is displaying remarkable resilience and is determined to clinch their first Six Nations crown in four years. Led by seasoned veterans such as the aforementioned Farrell and Maro Itoje, their chances of success are far higher than in years gone by. Also, keep an eye out for powerhouses like Tom Curry and Sam Underhill, as they are sure to make a significant impact.
France
France has long been a team that has left their fans scratching their heads. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions with Les Bleus — one moment they shine like a supernova, and the next they collapse like a house of cards.
Spearheaded by the exceptional talent of Antoine Dupont, they aim to bury their inconsistent reputation and live up to the billing that Bovada sportsbook made them the +110 favorites for glory. The pressure is on for both them and second favorites Ireland to put their disappointing World Cup performances firmly in the rearview mirror and make a resounding impact on the grandest stage.
Ireland
The current titleholders have a myriad of challenges to overcome this year. Under the guidance of head coach Andy Farrell, the Irish team has experienced a remarkable resurgence over the last couple of years. Their compelling three-match triumph over the formidable All Blacks on foreign soil serves as proof of their ability. Nevertheless, the New Zealanders managed to exact their revenge at the recent World Cup, where they eliminated Ireland in the quarterfinals.
Despite the challenges that lie ahead, the Boys in Green boasts an impressive lineup spearheaded by the experienced duo of Johnny Sexton and Conor Murray. That duo, however, will have to be at their very best thanks to a grueling schedule featuring away trips to both England and France.
Wales
Wales is yet another team that commands constant attention. With a formidable lineup featuring the likes of Dan Biggar and Alun Wyn Jones, they possess the potential to catch their adversaries off-guard. Their rock-solid defense, dominant forward pack, and lethal set of skilled backs make them a force to be reckoned with. The Welsh squad harbors ambitions to make a statement in the upcoming tournament, particularly after their untimely exit in the quarterfinals of the RWC, despite emerging as undefeated winners of their pool.
Warren Gatland’s comeback in the previous year injected new life into the aspirations of the Red Dragons, and he is currently entrusted with a pool of exceptionally skilled players. Captain Jones, in particular, is a formidable presence, while the backline consisting of notable figures like Leigh Halfpenny and George North demands respect. Yet, lingering injury concerns regarding Liam Williams and Jonathan Davies might cast a shadow over their performance, adding a note of caution.
Scotland
Scotland consistently possesses the ability to outperform expectations, an attribute that has been demonstrated in recent years. They have achieved favorable outcomes in three out of the past four tournaments, and their third-place finish in the previous edition has undoubtedly ignited the national spirit.
The team, under the guidance of Head Coach Gregor Townsend, boasts a robust lineup comprising promising young talents like Darcy Graham and Jamie Ritchie. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that fly-half Finn Russell’s inclination towards taking calculated risks on the field occasionally yields unfavorable results.
Scotland will be determined to raise their level of play after a disappointing performance in the recent World Cup. Defeats to Ireland and South Africa ended their journey in the challenging Group of Death. While winning the championship in the Six Nations era might be a tall order for them, securing another top-three finish is well within reach.
Italy
Italy, the perennial underdogs of the 6 Nations competition, seems to face yet another arduous season. Struggling to climb from the bottom of the table consistently, their prospects this year remain challenging.
Nonetheless, their newly appointed coach, Franco Smith, has expressed his ambitions of crafting a formidable team capable of challenging the very best. It will be intriguing to see how players like Jake Polledri and Matteo Minozzi shine on the field and potentially add excitement to the matches.
