Category: Rugby

We’re at that time of the year again where it’s exciting to be a rugby union fan, where we see the best in the UK come together to take on Australia in what is bound to be an action-packed three-match series.

I’m definitely excited, especially having seen the talent that was on show in this year’s 6 Nations tournament – perhaps reflected in the make-up of the side.

Heavily influenced by the Irish (only just), who have 15 players, followed by 13 from England, eight from Scotland and just two from Wales, I definitely think we have a great chance.

Who Stand Out For The Lions?

There is no doubt that we have a very dynamic pack, with individual strengths. The likes’ of Maro Itoje, Tom Curry and Josh van der Flier are definitely big players for the Lions and I think will be key coming up against the Wallabies – at least, certainly difference-makers.

The Lions also have great flair in the backs – Finn Russell, Marcus Smith and the maverick that is Tommy Freeman have the potential to really unlock Aussie defences and are certainly dangerous with the ball in hand.

Meanwhile, in Henry Pollock, there is a rising star that can take the stage by storm and really show the world what he is all about.

I think there has to be a shout out to Ben Earl as well whose workrate is often underrated – he quietly goes about his business, puts in the hits, covers the pitch and is sublime as a support player, usually breaking lines and hard to defend against.

What Could The Outcome Be?

Not surprisingly, the Lions are favourites for the series, especially after Australia’s slump to eighth in the world rankings, though they do have home advantage.

The Lions will likely need to cope with tricky weather conditions – it is winter down under, though they may be glad of the cooler temperatures and it could actually work to their advantage.

I’m thinking that it will be closer than a lot of people think – possibly a narrow 2-1 series victory. Coach, Andy Farrell will definitely make sure his boys don’t let complacency set in and he will be keen to keep his players aware, though relaxed at the same time.

It is always an entertaining fixture and I think that these will be three very different games, so fans have a lot to look forward to.

Ultimately, I expect Lions’ quality to shine through – especially with the blend of talent and experience in the squad which could essentially overwhelm the Wallabies.
There were times in the 6 Nations where we saw players punished in the rain with handling errors, so the Lions will be hoping for dry conditions – should this be the case, then it will only help their cause.

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.

Posting this because we can pic.twitter.com/807zSrdDTx

— Guinness Men’s Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) March 28, 2024

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.