Last Day of this year's Six Nations Rugby Union Contest

So today is the last day and what a contest it has been so far. In a few minutes we have the Scotland v Italy game from Edinburgh. The former must win to prevent a whitewash and dare one say it but the next worse team, whoever that could be would have two wins more. The only thing is Scotland's favour is that Italy do not play well when away from their home ground.

The next game in today's schedule is Ireland v England. England are going for the grand slam and therefore win all their games. Ireland need to regain some pride after last week's defeat to Wales. This game is probably the most important one of the three as it will either confirm England's progress towards the World Cup that will take place in New Zealand starting in September, or re-invigorate the planning being made for the same reason by Ireland. An Ireland defeat would bring back concerns about the playing and backroom staff and the impact it would have on expectations at the World Cup.

The final game, which could be the one to watch for absolute excitement, especially for the neutral is France v Wales from Paris. France have made changes and commentators are all concerned that this is coach Livremont's Last Stand due to his public comments made following last week's defeat by one point to Italy (the first time France have lost to Italy) and the rammifications from that event could be catastrophic again given preparations for the World Cup. Wales remain an unpredictable force. But this game is usually so full of open play rugby that the result could turn either way. However, if the French play it tight then it will come down to kicks and there would be a bias to the home side then. Let's hope for a high scoring game and from a personal viewpoint a win for Wales.

Incidentally, should England lose badly and Wales win well then it is possible that Wales could win the Championship on points difference. This is very doubtful but you never know what can happen.

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