WITH all the recent hype surrounding Eddie Jones’ England squad selection and the first Six Nations since the Rugby World Cup, one would perhaps be forgiven for forgetting that this year’s Women’s Six Nations is just as tantalising a prospect and will surely result in some equally (if not more) entertaining rugby. In regards to this, The Gryphon gives you an in-depth preview of what to expect from this year’s competition, with a preview of the Men’s Six Nations competition available on The Gryphon website.

The competition is kicked-off by the always entertaining rivalry of Scotland and England, as the two nations face-off against one another at Broadwood Stadium. England most certainly have a lot to prove, with the side finishing in a bitterly disappointing fourth place last year, having only months earlier lifted the World Cup. However, captain Sarah Hunter insists that her side have learned from the mistakes of last year and have shifted from what she deemed a ‘development period’ and into the ‘performance period’. Plus, with an impressive-looking Hannah Gallagher now a key player in the back-row, England look to have the talent and the hunger to succeed this time around.

Next up is the titanic clash of Ireland against Wales, which will take place at The Donnybrook in Ireland. The reigning champions are once again looking like a formidable force, as Niamh Briggs provides an assured platform both as captain and in the front row. However, the side will be missing Jen Murphy and Allison Miller as pivotal backs, for this first encounter. As a result, Wales will surely be looking to cause some damage to a depleted Irish side, in a match that is going to have as much psychological as it is competitive significance.

The final match between France and Italy is an old rivalry, and one which is sure to be made even livelier by the sheer determination that will fuel this French side. The team finished second last year, losing to Ireland only by points difference, and Gaelle Mignot has made no secret of how much this has inspired the team. However, whilst this may sound intimidating to a Italian side that historically has not fared well in these competitions, it must be noted that this French side is a relatively inexperienced one – with many players in key roles, such as Romane Menager making their debut. Though Mignot has stated that the new players have integrated perfectly into the squad, Italy will surely be looking to exploit this inexperience at the very highest level.

James Candler

Featured  image: The Guardian