With the Autumn Internationals set to come to a conclusion, after some very exciting rugby which pits the best of the southern hemisphere against the best from the north, this has provided some great insight of what we can expect for next year’s edition of the 6 Nations.
As more or less, realistically expected teams from the southern hemisphere have come out on top, showcasing the gulf in quality with the likes of New Zealand, Australia and South Africa – winners of the last two World Cups all demonstrating just how far ahead they are.
Indeed, no home nation has recorded a win over these three teams, though England have come the closest having participated in some very entertaining games with particularly close margins.
Because of this, it suggests that the 6 Nations next year could make for some interesting viewing and betting possibilities.
Are England Worth A Punt At 7/2?
Defending champions Ireland, are inevitably the favourites, with most bookmakers offering evens on them to win the 2025 instalment, however, a lot will depend on how much they can handle the pressure and whether they sustain any key injuries between now and then.
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Based on recent performances, especially against the top three southern hemisphere teams in the Autumn Internationals, suggest that England could make for a very smart bet after some resilient displays, with most bookmakers currently offering odds in the 7/2 territory.
A lot will depend on whether they can carry their momentum forward and key players such as Henry Arundell will certainly be a player to watch. His game-changing pace and try-scoring ability and two huge assets, while Ben Earl with his support play and Freddie Steward who is excellent up against high balls and launching counter-attacks provide England with very credible threats.
Meanwhile, Scotland, especially at home are a great pick for an upset against defensively weaker teams like Italy and Wales, particularly with Finn Russell’s ability with the ball in hand and from his boot. When the time comes, Scotland could certainly be a good bet to finish in the top three.
France also make for a great value bet to win the tournament and are currently second favourites behind Ireland and ahead of England, with odds of around 9/4 being offered by most bookmakers. Also, they are the only team to have beaten one of the big three teams in the Autumn Internationals, producing a great performance against the All Blacks with a dramatic 30-29 victory. They will need to be on top form if they are to win the 6 Nations but they certainly have the ability, especially with big-game player Antoine Dupont.
Italy are gradually improving and produced two shock wins in last years edition, beating Scotland 31-29 in Rome and Wales 24-21 in Cardiff, as well as an incredible 13-13 draw against France in Paris. While winning the tournament is more than likely to be a stretch, they could be a great outside bet to sneak what would be a shock second place.