England did not deserve victory, but despite some superb play the French failed again to close out the game, something the hosts have learned to do at any costFrance now look stuck in that seemingly eternal Scotland rut – playing some great stuff, deserving of victory, yet not achieving it. And thus, the hard-bitten among us will insist, not deserving of victory at all. The good teams find a way to win when they’re not playing well; the hopeful, promising ones find a way to lose even when they are. It is not fair, but it is the way of the world. Related: Eddie Jones: England were awful but I always thought we were going to win Related: Ben Te’o...
The competition could be on the cusp of a gripping new era but England will have their work cut out if they are to repeat the glory of last yearEven before a ball is passed or punted, the 2017 Six Nations Championship feels different. There is more potential intrigue than at any time since Italy’s entry made it a hexagonal ball game at the turn of the century and a fresh sense of purpose in almost every dressing room. Just as Europe is ripping itself asunder politically, the Six Nations could be on the cusp of a gripping new era.It may not feel that way to everyone on Monday morning but currently only the weather forecast is putting a dampener...
The England coach is the country’s best selector since the era of Clive Woodward but scheming outside-halves could help the chasing nationsThe view at last week’s Six Nations launch was that this would be the most unpredictable tournament for years. It’s a prediction that will be tested on the opening weekend when last year’s top three meet the bottom three. Related: England call on Joe Launchbury after Kruis injured in 'super intense' training Related: Six Nations: Lions, bonus points and other key issues in the 2017 tournament | Gerard Meagher Continue reading...
Absences will test Eddie Jones’ champions while Ireland need Jonathan Sexton fighting fit and Wales look to Dan Biggar to be more adventurous2016 record: P13 W13 L0 Related: Six Nations predictions: back Scotland if you’re brave but Ireland are in box seat Related: Johnny Sexton ruled out of Ireland’s Six Nations opener against Scotland Related: Ben Youngs: When I met Eddie Jones I just thought ‘I want to play for this guy’ Continue reading...
Ireland are the favourites to win the 2017 tournament but face competition from England, with Scotland an outside betRobert Kitson Ireland. Hard to see them folding at home to England on the final weekend with a potential title and Lions tour berths up for grabs. Related: Eddie Jones has match fitness problems in England pack for France opener Related: Wales ask to play all Six Nations home games under closed Cardiff roof Continue reading...