6 Nations Preview Ireland, Scotland & Wales

We've already looked at England and the two continental teams (France & Italy) in the first part of this Preview. Now it's time for the Celtic Nations.

Ireland

Who replaces POC?

Double champions, they're favourites in a lot of people's eyes, despite their catastrophic collapse against Argentina in the World Cup Quarter Finals. However it's not plain sailing for Irish Rugby at the moment, they've lost their long standing talisman in Paul O'Connell, no Irish teams made the knockout stages of the Champions Cup, and Jonathan Sexton is once again struggling with concussion related issues. The injury issues don't stop in their on-field general, they are also missing the tough as stone O'Mahony at flanker, Iain Henderson who is seen as O'Connell's replacement, prolific try scorer Tommy Bowe, and Luke Fitzgerald has been ruled out too. Not to mention three front rowers out of action.

It's not all doom and gloom across the Irish Sea, Joe Schmidt has spent much of his tenure developing considerable squad depth in practically every position - except maybe at half-back. So they are more than capable of plugging these holes with quality, it's just the number of first choice options missing that could scupper their chances this year. Most importantly Schimdt needs to find a centre partnership that could provide some midfield threat, Ireland have become the biggest exponents of choking the life out of a game over recent years, rather than being known for scoring tries they prefer to deny the game many points. In the end it's what let them down during the World Cup. This system can be seen forthright in Schmidt's selection at centre with Henshaw and Payne, two players who before putting on the green shirt were more accustomed to the fullback position. Typifying the kicking game so perfectly executed by Schmidt & Sexton. With many teams talking about taking a lead out of the Southern Hemisphere book, it might be time for Ireland to try youth and exuberance instead, Henshaw can stay he's shown his qualities as a tough strong centre in the mould of Jamie Roberts, I would like to see the introduction of Ulsterman Stuart McCloskey who has been terrorising defences in the PRO12 this year. Big and powerful, with a deft boot and soft hands incredibly capable of pulling out the offloads which can unpick defences.

Stuart McCloskey is going to be a future star for Ireland, will he feature this year?

Other than the Ireland team picks itself, the bullocking Sean O'Brien and the professional Heaslip slot into the backrow, Toner adds height to the lineout and captain Rory Best lead's the pack from the front. Murray and Sexton continue their world class partnership, the wing berths have half a dozen players wanting to fill them, and Rob Kearney will look to rule the skies with his excellent catching ability.

Starting against Wales in Dublin promises to be a tasty encounter to round out the first weekend. It's been a ding-dong battle between Wales and Ireland over the last decade or so, neither team able to consistently beat the other. Ireland will hope home advantage will count for plenty - even if Wales won the last time in Dublin - and kick off their title defence with a win. If not it could be a long year with both France and England away after Wales, which will be very tricky places to restart the title defence at.

Star Player: Jonathan Sexton

Player to Watch: Stuart McCloskey

Scotland

What a World Cup Scotland had: they beat giant killers Japan in a second half rout, succumbed to the physicality of South Africa, and then almost flunked out the tournament against Samoa. All before having the game of their careers against eventual runners up Australia, yes they should have won, but that's in the past and Scotland have to move on from that heart-ache. Wales have shown what can happen after a team have a wonderfully successful World Cup campaign (see 2011), and use the heartache in the following 6 Nations, Scotland should follow suit.

Bennet back form injury just in time

There is plenty of hope for Scotland in this tournament, they're not struggling with a lot of injuries, only really at centre, but Mark Bennett has made a timely return to ease concerns and Duncan Taylor is having a great time playing for table topping Saracens in the Aviva Premiership. In the PRO12 both Scottish teams are having considerable success, Edinburgh currently sit in the play-off positions, and Glasgow have been playing strong rugby despite sitting in 8th (although they do have two games to play). They possess talent across the board, WP Nel became a fan favourite for his scrummaging ability in the World Cup, Finn Russell is becoming an assured fly-half who makes few mistakes, John Hardie provides them with serious breakdown firepower, and the Gray brothers are a fantastic partnership in the engine room. Stuart Hogg is their biggest attacking threat, always looking to run the ball back and incredibly good at scything through would-be tacklers with regularity. And that's before you mention his siege cannon of a boot, which provides a safe exit route from their 22, and can knock over 50+ meter penalties should it be needed.

Perhaps most important to the Scotland cause if scrum-half and captain Greig Laidlaw. He had his doubters going into the World Cup, that perhaps he should be replaced by the young and impressive Hidalgo-Clyne. He proved all of them wrong, leading Scotland through difficult matches, perfectly running the game, and kicking with a 90% kicking accuracy which constantly kept the scoreboard ticking over. He was arguably the best scrum half at the World Cup, and he needs to take this form into the 6 Nations if Scotland want to succeed.

Laidlaw is the heartbeat of Scotland, his goal kicking will prove crucial too

If Scotland are going to have any problems it is likely to arise from attrition more than anything, while the first choice players provide plenty of talent, the back ups are not of the same calibre. If Scotland suffer any injuries to key players (see Laidlaw, Hogg, Russell or Nel) they could begin to falter. The opening weekend provides the perfect chance to start strong, the Calcutta Cup is the best way to get the Scottish players excited for the first match and give it their all. After that is two away games in Cardiff and Rome, tricky but not impossible, win at Murrayfield and momentum will start to build.

Star Player: Greig Laidlaw

Player to Watch: Sam Hidalgo-Clyne

Wales

Settled, confident and pundit's favourite. Wales know what they're doing in the 6 Nations, the most successful team in the last decade they know what it takes to win this championship. They are practically back to full strength, with the exception of missing Leigh Halfpenny and Rhys Webb from the starting team. And thanks to the most horrific run of injuries during the World Cup have built up significant strength in depth. Perhaps most importantly they have Test Lion Jonathan Davies back and playing excellent rugby for his club - Clermont. He has been a linchpin in the Welsh set up for years, and his partnership with Jamie Roberts is important, especially in defence, the style which Wales defends involves the outside centre rushing hard, and reading the opposition attack, allowing Wales to shut them down deep behind the gainline if possible. 

Jonathan Davies' timely return could help Wales reclaim their title

Warren Gatland has been attacked quite extensively in the last few weeks for Wales' attacking system, and that it lacks creativity and the ability to score tries. This may be true, as such Gatland and Howley (Wales attacking coach) have promised a new arrow to the Welsh attacking quiver alongside infamous "Warrenball". With Liam Williams back from injury and looking lethal, Hallam Amos provides much needed finishing ability and footballing ability out wide too, and Jonathan Davies has shown again and again what he brings in attack. At fly-half Dan Biggar became a super-star during the World Cup and will be looking to continue his form and be the "Governor" of Gatland's side, at scrum half there is a fight between all three players, Gareth Davies is the man in possession but there are questions over his game management and the fact that rival Aled Davies has kept him on the bench at the Scarlets this season. Then there is Lloyd Williams who I've always seen as the best tactical scrum-half in Wales and could play an important role through the tournament.

In the pack Sam Warburton lacks game time, but has always proven his ability at Test Level and should not be taken lightly because of it. Once again the debate rages whether to select Tipuric or Lydiate alongside the captain. Each provide widely different qualities and it could become a horses for courses selection along the road and it could provide a challenge for Wales' opponents not entirely sure what type of game Wales will bring to the game. Samson Lee wasn't at his best in the World Cup but with a couple of months of game-time under his belt he looks ready to become the replacement to Adam Jones he was touted to be. In the locks they have the world class Alun Wyn Jones, who

Fan favourite Tipuric is set to start against Ireland

literally never takes a backwards step, alongside either enforcer Bradley Davies or the giraffe like Charteris. Wales are well covered in all positions in the scrum and will not be concerned about injuries to the point that other teams might be. 

If Wales' campaign is going to fall down anywhere, it will be in the first week. With some crucial players still coming back from lengthy lay offs they could struggle in Dublin against and Irish team who will be looking to win three championships in a row. Ireland are huge exponents of the kicking game and the Welsh back-three will need to be fit and raring to go ready to dog-fight across the skies for most of the game. It could be an issue. After that it's two home games on the bounce against Scotland and France, two games the players should be confident of winning especially in the (newly named) Principality Stadium.

Star Player: Alun Wyn Jones

Player to Watch: Hallam Amos

6 Nations Preview - England, France & Italy

The greatest annual tournament is back next weekend, and it's more open than ever before. Five teams have a realistic chance of wining the tournament, especially with two new coaches for England and France. After the attacking flair shown at the end of last years tournament, and the wonderful nature in which the World Cup was played, could we be in store for not only a fiercely competitive tournament but one filled with exciting width play and style? We shall look at each team as they head into the tournament, and where they are likely to finish.

England

Eddie Jones looks to rebuild England

The World Cup was a mess, but they are starting afresh with entirely new coaching set up and a new captain too. In all honesty despite the struggles last time out, England look in good shape heading into the 6 Nations. With 5 teams through to the European Champions Cup knockout stages, lead the way by the all conquering Saracens. It will certainly be interesting as to Eddie Jones' first team selection, his first 23 man squad raised some eyebrows, mainly because it consisted of players that were present during the World Cup. No room for arguably the best outside centre in European rugby - Elliot Daley - with Jones sticking with the internationally proven Jonathan Joseph instead.

The argument is that going up to Murrayfield first out would be the definition of a baptism of fire and not the greatest place to earn your first international cap. It tells us Eddie Jones is looking to get through this 6 Nations with as many wins as he can get, no consideration for the future yet. It's a pragmatic approach but could lead to some England fans getting frustrated with the same players on the field that were there under Lancaster.

Eddie Jones is known to be a coach who really likes the idea of two play makers in the backline, it seems he is going for the same style under England, with the selection of Ollie Devoto and reports of Ford and Farrell playing alongside each other. Without a doubt in the future it seem Henry Slade will be slotted into the 12 jersey, which just leaves the question of who will fill the outside centre channel.

Where does Tuilagi fit in?

It's a tricky selection with Daley, Joseph and the returning Tuilagi all demanding consideration. I suppose it comes down to what game plan Jones wants to play. Looking back to when he coached Japan, he might like the idea of Tuilagi at 13, offering serious ball carrying, gain line ability to compliment the passing ability at 10 and 12. Or instead he could move the bruising Manu into 12 and add the gas of Joseph and Daley outside him. This can be achieved with Jones' preffered twin playmaker system if England select the likes of Goode at fullback.

This 6 Nations seems to still be a little early for Tuilagi who is still coming back from a lengthy injury, which leaves England a little light on bulk and could heavily rely on their forward carriers. James Haskell is playing incredibly well for Wasps, and the Saracens pack is dominating everyone they come across. If England can take the form of their forwards into this campaign they will be a really tough team to beat. While they may still be lacking the classic "jackle" open-side flanker, they still have a selection of players who can win turnovers and slow down the opponents ball. It is not something that should drastically affect them this year.

Their first game is against Scotland, it's a tough fixture especially with the confidence Scotland have from the World Cup. I don't know if England can take Scotland at Murrayfield with players still learning the new attacking systems. It could prove the opposite with Scotland being unable to cope with a brand new England team however.

Star Player: Mike Brown
Player to Watch: Elliot Daley

France

Another like England with a brand new coach, who also seems to have brought a breath of fresh air into the squad. Gone is the wrecking ball Basteraud instead replaced with more balanced runners. France have to replace the legendary Duisatoir after his retirement from the game, but new coach Noves seems to be giving youth a chance and adding plenty of young exciting backrowers into the mix alongside the veteran Picamoles. 

Fofana has always been amazing, will it finally
be in a functional French side?

Frances always have been a mixed bag team, but under Saint-Andre they seemed a team on the wane, unable to control a game, having to rely heavily on a moment of magic to win them a game. Talent is not exactly a quality lacking in France with backs famed for their ability to beat a man and break the line, none more so than Fofana. Fofana is likely to thrive under the new coaching system a team looking far more lethal and potent in attack, with a pack of forwards that offer considerable ball carrying ability combined with athleticism. 

French club's have struggled a little in the Champions Cup this season. Clermont were touted as favourites for this years tournament, and instead were knocked out in the pools. Toulon got out of their pool the hard way in the end after Wasps dismantled them in the early rounds. Despite this France could provide a piece of the unknown to this tournament, not sure if they'll spark back to life or be the damn squib they have been for a while. Specific players, in important positions, have been showing their quality during the season, Fofana, Guidrado, and Picamoles have been playing very well week in, week out.

The biggest struggle for France for years has been finding a half-back partnership that clicks and runs the game well together. Morgan Parra has more often than not been chosen at scrum half for years, and with the nickname of "Little General" he is known for his ability to run a game and make the right decision at the right time. The biggest problem has been finding a fly-half to play outside him. France have gone through uncountable numbers of fly-halves in the last few years, which is probably the main reason they've struggled for game contingency. There is still no stand out performer in France, so it will probably be the case that Guy Noves will have to make his selection early and stick with him for the tournament in the hope he can find his feet and form the required partnership.

Parra hopes he'll have a consistent fly-half outside of him for the duration of this tournament

Up first is Italy in Paris, it should be an easy game for France, and I expect a considerable score. Especially after the final weekend last year, France might be looking to pile on the points early this time around in case it comes down to points difference yet again. It will be the perfect fixture for Noves to play new caps and to test our his new gameplan. Provided France get on the front foot early on, the crowd will be behind them and they should walk to victory.

Star Player: Wesley Fofana
Player to Watch: Jonathan Danty

Italy

Campagnaro provides quality in the Italian backline

This is going to be a very tough tournament for Italy, they are the only team hasn't progressed in recent years, and despite the occasional heroic victory they've never strung together a consistent performance. As such the calls for the likes of Georgia to be included are stronger than ever. Never the less they still provide a potential banana skin for the big teams and should never just be considered an easy win. With the super human Sergio Parisse providing the skill set to practically become a team in his own right, they possess someone who will never give in. A selection of young players are starting to find their feet in international rugby, with Gori becoming a great scrum half especially to play a fast tempo game. Campagnaro is plying his trade for Exter Chiefs - currently second in the Aviva Premiership - and should hopefully add his skill set and ability to Italy's
backline. 

The Italian clubs are struggling at the bottom of the PRO12, and while they cause opponents problems at home, on the road they are often put to the sword with relative ease. It is an issue for the national coach when the club sides provide limited success and barren ground for the development of youthful talent. Never more so in the continued inability to find a competent fly half, in all faceats of the game. We've had flash in the pan 10's with Luciano Orquera tearing apart France one week before flailing with no control the next week, and Tomasso Allan coming from Scotland's youth structure, having some success but never grasping the shirt. The biggest issue has been not having a Test level goal kicker to knock over the points on a regular basis and give them footholds in games.

With the excitment and form of all the other teams coming into this 6 Nations, I feel this could be Italy's worst tournament in a few years. And teams will be looking to pile on the points against them in case it comes down to points difference like last year.

Star Player: Sergio Parisse
Players to Watch: Michele Campagnaro

6 Nations Fantasy League

After the excitement of the World Cup, and the Tackle Pad league was a hotly fought contest which ended up in a victory for me. It wasn't rigged I promise.

Now you all get another chance to prove your the best fantasy coach as the 6 Nations rolls around. ESPN Fantasy League is once again back, in the same format as the World Cup. With a few notable rule changes.

Now you can select up to FOUR players from each side. In addition transfers have been altered once again, now you can make THREE "free" changes each week, should you wish to make any additional changes you can pay 2 points per transfer for the privilege.

Scoring is pretty much the same, except now forwards score EIGHT points for a try compared to the usual FIVE for the backs. An additional method of points scoring has also been added, any time a player achieves a line out steal, making second row forwards a worthwhile addition to your team now.

Should you wish to take up the challenge and prove you are the best fantasy coach, then sign up to ESPN Fantasy League, and join the Tackle Pad Private League using the code:

1114626-20307

Good luck, hopefully the 6 Nations will live up to the World Cup's try fest!