As the Six Nations Championship kicks off once again, it’s clear that this season promises to be packed with drama and excitement.
With each team looking to make their mark, here’s my take on where they’ll finish and what to watch for as the tournament unfolds.
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Dupont’s Return: A Game-Changer for France
One of the standout storylines for 2025 is the return of Antoine Dupont.
After missing last year’s Six Nations, his comeback is a massive boost for France—and for rugby fans everywhere.
Let’s face it: anyone facing Dupont will have their hands full.
He’s one of the best to ever play the game, and his presence is a treat for all of us lucky enough to watch him.
Dupont’s versatility shines through, not just as a scrum-half but also from his time in Sevens.
His gold medal at the 2024 Olympics was a huge achievement and highlighted his ability to take on new challenges.
His performances were top-notch, showing off skills like competing at the breakdown that are rare in Sevens.
His journey sets him apart from other players.
To me, he’s right up there with Sir Gareth Edwards as the best scrum-half to have ever played.
It’s tough to say if he’s the greatest ever, but Dupont’s abilities make him an undisputed legend in my eyes.
France’s Management of Dupont: A Lesson for England
The way French rugby has managed Dupont—especially with his Sevens involvement—deserves a lot of credit.
It’s something that, in my opinion, England and Great Britain could learn from.
Sevens has been neglected in England, which is a real shame.
Imagine how much the game would benefit if players like Marcus Smith were given the chance to shine in that format!
In France, they just get on with it, which is one reason their rugby system is so strong.
England, on the other hand, still has a long way to go.
The Importance of a Strong No. 9 and No. 10 Partnership
Having a world-class pairing at No. 9 and No. 10 is essential to success in international rugby, and France has that in Dupont and Romain Ntamack.
They’re one of the best combinations around, and their partnership is a big reason why I think France will be the team to beat in the 2025 Six Nations.
In their opener against Wales, it’s hard to imagine anything other than a French victory.
While Wales is always a competitive side under Warren Gatland, they’ve got a mountain to climb this time.
It’s hard to see them overcoming France’s formidable combination.
Italy: On the Rise
This year, Italy is looking promising.
Although they’ll miss the leadership of Sione Tuipulotu, who’s a huge loss as their captain, I still think they have a real chance of finishing above some of their competitors.
Italy’s strong performances last year, including victories over Wales and Scotland, point to a side on the up.
With Tuipulotu sidelined, Italy’s match against Scotland becomes crucial.
Scotland, already missing several key players, are a frustrating team to predict.
They’ve pulled off impressive wins in the past, but they struggle to find consistency.
This could be Italy’s year to make a real impact.
Scotland: A Tough Road Ahead
Scotland’s campaign is off to a rocky start, with key players like Tuipulotu, Scott Cummings, and Josh Bayliss all missing.
This leaves head coach Gregor Townsend with a difficult job.
Despite high hopes, I don’t see Scotland making a serious title push this year.
It’s a shame because they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has always been their downfall.
England’s Challenge: A Crucial Start
For England, the road ahead is tough.
The first two rounds, with games against Ireland and France, are as challenging as it gets.
However, I firmly believe that in international rugby, it’s all about the next game.
For England, that means focusing on Ireland in their opener.
England’s performance against Ireland will set the tone for the rest of the tournament.
They certainly have the talent to win, as shown in their stunning victory over Ireland last season.
It’ll be a much tougher challenge on Irish soil, but it’s not out of the question for them to pull off another surprise.
England’s Key Selection Decisions
One of the biggest decisions for England coach Steve Borthwick was promoting Maro Itoje to captain, and I think it was the right move.
The team has a lot of depth, and with their pre-tournament training camp featuring an impressive 25 support staff, the resources are there to succeed.
Borthwick’s team selection, especially in the back row with the Curry twins, is all about speed and breakdown dominance.
This aggressive approach should pay off, but England will need to be smart about their set-pieces and avoid giving away penalties to Ireland.
England’s Path Forward: Pressure and Opportunity
It’s a big year for Borthwick, and the pressure is on for him and the players to perform.
Heading into the Ireland game, he’ll need to instill a sense of urgency.
I believe England can win, but they’ll need to play with pace and energy from the start to have any chance.
England’s centre partnership of Henry Slade and Ollie Lawrence is key, but it hasn’t clicked yet.
Time is running out for them to find their rhythm, and the Ireland match is the perfect opportunity to do so.
My Prediction: Who Will Take the Title?
After analyzing the teams, I’m backing France to come out on top this year.
Even though they’ll face tough challenges from both Ireland and England, France’s form—especially with Dupont leading the way—makes them the favorites.
The French rugby system is miles ahead of England’s at the moment, and that’s a huge advantage.
As for England, finishing in the top three would be a solid outcome, but I can’t see them winning the tournament.
My Six Nations Predictions
Here’s how I see the teams finishing:
6th: Wales
5th: Scotland
4th: Italy
3rd: England
2nd: Ireland
1st: France
Let the games begin!
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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