Three Teams Contend for Six Nations Title on Super Saturday

Cardiff, Wales – With Super Saturday on the horizon, three teams remain in contention for the Six Nations title: Ireland, France, and England. The championship will reach its climax on March 15, with Ireland leading the standings following their victory in Rome while Scotland‘s hopes were dashed.

France, coming into the final round as favorites, must defeat Scotland at Stade de France to claim the championship. They currently lead with a points difference of +106, significantly higher than England’s +20. England can leapfrog Ireland and potentially win the title if they secure a bonus-point victory against Wales.

“Our destiny relies on our performance against Wales,” England coach Steve Borthwick stated. “Winning with a bonus point puts us in a strong position.”

If points are tied among competing teams, the victor will be determined by points difference. Losing bonus points can be earned if teams lose by seven points or fewer. Ireland secured five points in Rome, but they must rely on favorable results from the matches in Cardiff and Paris to clinch their third consecutive title.

For Ireland to retain the championship, England must not beat Wales, and France must fall to Scotland. “We’ve done our part, now we’re waiting to see how it unfolds,” Ireland coach Simon Easterby said.

Super Saturday’s matchups are set as follows:

Wales vs. England, 16:45 GMT, at Principality Stadium (broadcast on BBC One and BBC Radio 5 Live)

France vs. Scotland, 20:00 GMT, at Stade de France (broadcast on ITV and BBC Radio 5 Live)

If France wins with a bonus point, they will claim the title on their home turf. Even a win without a bonus point may suffice if England fails to achieve a maximum return against Wales. Meanwhile, a draw with a bonus point would ensure that France maintains their position at the top if England does not outperform them.

England’s scenario for winning the championship hinges on defeating Wales with a bonus point while hoping France does not achieve a similar victory. “It’s going to be an intense day,” Borthwick added.

As for Ireland, achieving the title requires a bonus-point win against Italy, combined with England and France both losing or drawing their matches. “We’re focused on our game and what we can control,” Easterby remarked.

At the opposite end of the standings, Wales is vying to avoid finishing at the bottom of the table, competing against Italy. After suffering four consecutive losses, the Welsh have a points difference of -65, needing at least a draw or two losing bonus points against England to avoid finishing with the Wooden Spoon.

In the history of the Six Nations since its establishment in 2000, England has claimed the title the most often with seven wins, yet they have not lifted the trophy since 2020. Conversely, each of Wales, Ireland, and France has won the title six times, while Scotland and Italy have yet to claim victory.

The championship culminates with all teams poised to make their final mark on this prestigious tournament, and the title contenders gearing up for a thrilling showdown.