2025 Six Nations Preview

Its that time of year again where we show our national pride around Rugby Union and the Six Nations. Under the new branding of M6N, this year is looking like its going to be one of the tightest tournaments with the improvements of Italy, England and Scotland challenging the might of France with the returning Antoine Dupont, whilst Wales continues their redevelopment. However, can anyone topple the defending champions Ireland? Here is what we think at Davies Sports:

1^st – Ireland

With Manager Andy Farrell missing as he plans for the Summer’s British and Irish Lions Tour, the defending Champions are being led by Simon Easterby. However, its hard to look past Ireland who have strength all over the pitch and continue to look the most dominant force in the tournament. The first game against England will be the good tester to how the tournament will go, and playing France at the Aviva Stadium is a big advantage going into the tournament.

2^nd – France

After losing their talisman Antoine Dupont last year as he prepared for Olympic glory with the French 7’s team, he is back along with a deeper and stronger squad. Their squad has some formidable force, and the quickest forward line in world rugby. The inclusion of young and exciting wingers Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Theo Attissoge showcases the power and pace across the squad. The entertainers will be great to watch this tournament.

3^rd – England

England are still going through a transition period under Steve Borthwick, with discipline and confidence in closing out games during the recent Autumn Internationals being a big issue. Newly appointed Captain Maro Itoje will look to bring some composure and stability in the forwards with the younger back line including Marcus Smith and Freddie Steward now having more experience. Expect some tight matches and big performances from England.  

4^th – Scotland

Scotland have the power to compete and beat any of the teams in world rugby, but the confidence in closing games out and holding out in defence continues to be their downfall. With the power that is Duhan van der Merwe, Scotland have one of the best Backs in world rugby, and alongside experienced Fly-Half Finn Russell and Centre Huw Jones, Scotland will have some big performances. However, can they turn some of these tight matches into victories?

5^th – Italy

The Azzurri have been in the Six Nations for 25 years now and hold 18 wooden spoons so haven’t experience much success. However, last year they showed the massive improvements the country have gone through, beating Wales and Scotland, drawing with France and coming close to beating England. With exciting Centres Ignacio Brex and Tommaso Menoncello, it will be exciting to see the improvements in Italy as they look to become a real force in the tournament.  

6^th – Wales

These are challenging times for WRU and Warren Gatland as Wales goes through a huge transition period. It wasn’t long ago since Wales dominated the Six Nations, but with over 1,000 caps now retired from the team in red, it is going to be a difficult period. One a current 12 game losing streak, the Welsh fans are looking more for signs of hope for the future. However, it doesn’t look good and we are sadly predicting the wooden spoon for the former Grand Slam champions.

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