Six Nations 2010 - The Contenders

Sunday 17 January 2010
Published By:
International Rugby > France

With less than three weeks to go until one of the premier events in world rugby gets underway, who's likely to be taking home the 2010 Six Nations title?

Ireland

The title holders remained unbeaten throughout 2009 after salvaging a draw against Australia and knocking off the world champion Springboks. Some think they're likely to have lost their lustre this year - particularly as they could come up against superior opposition - but it seems Declan Kidney's men will nevertheless be the ones to beat. After all, they're Sir Ian McGeechan's tip to be victorious and that's a hard knight to argue with. Future first choice fly-half Jonny Sexton could well be the man to watch this tournament.

France

They finished third last year, thanks to that debacle at Twickenham that ravaged their points difference. But France appear to have established themselves as the northern hemisphere's top team after a victory over South Africa that was a touch more convincing than Ireland's. They may have been crushed by New Zealand, but they won't be coming up against quality opposition like that this spring and may be the ones claiming a Grand Slam victory this time around. And while the talk is all about Ireland, the bookies are tipping Marc Lievremont to guide his team to the title despite some new injury problems.

Wales

A pair of Grand Slams in the last four years means they can never be counted out, but the Welsh are clearly struggling. They may have finished fourth last year, but that was by virtue of having scored fewer points than England and France and did have a chance to hang on to their title in the final game. Nonetheless, a heavy defeat to Australia on their last time out means there is plenty to prove and their opener at Twickenham could be the key to their whole tournament.