Six Nations 2022 - Round 3 Predictions

Blogging about rugby as people lose their lives to war in Ukraine does seem somewhat pointless and I did seriously consider giving it a miss.  

That said, I am not sure how not blogging about the return of the Six Nations this weekend would achieve anything.

So, somewhat conflicted, here goes…

First up we have Scotland vs France at Murrayfield. It used to be the French who were maddeningly inconsistent but now that mantle is worn by the Scots. Clinical against England, Scotland were very poor in Cardiff. France, meanwhile, while not at their scintillating best, were still too good for a very strong Ireland team in Paris last time out. Their away form this year is unknown, but I still fancy them to win at Murrayfield. France by 7.

Then we have England vs Wales at Twickenham. I have to say that I had England as firm favourites for this one.  And then came the news that Manu Tuilagi had, once again, succumbed to injury – devastating for him personally, but also for me as I had selected him in my fantasy team! Wales will undoubtedly try to spoil the party but I am still banking on Marcus Smith’s home 6N debut being a memorable one. England by 9.

Finally, on Sunday, it is Ireland vs Italy in Dublin. I have to say I fear for Italy in this one. If the All Blacks could not deal with Ireland’s relentless precision in November, then what chance Italy? The best they can hope for is a bit of Irish complacency early doors, but I think we are probably looking at a thumping here. Ireland by 40.

Total Flanker – the older I get, the better I was