It's been something of subdued build up to Round 4 of this year's Six Nations - very little in terms of media coverage or speculation. Maybe that has something to do with the last round being disrupted, or the anti-climax of England's challenge (or lack thereof) or perhaps just a general Covid19-induced apathy affecting us all.
But here we are at Round 4 (at least for four of the teams), so what can we expect?
Italy v Wales
Given Italy's record in recent years it is becoming almost impossible to talk up their chances come Six Nations weekends. The fact is that, whilst attractive to watch and having definitely improved, the Italians give themselves no chance of winning a game owing to a propensity for conceding points with frustrating regularity. Simply put, they need to find a way to stay in the game long enough to make the last quarter interesting but sadly I doubt Wales will have to play particularly well to win this with relative comfort. Please prove me wrong Italy. Wales by 15+.
England v France
Hmmm. It used to be the case that you would never know which French team would turn up. Now we know for certain - well selected, well coached and with a solid, disciplined pack, phenomenal defence, world class half backs, and a backline packed with pace, power and guile. England, on the other hand, are desperately scrabbling around for some form. France's Covid break could leave them a little undercooked but, although England will no doubt make them work for it, I expect them to complete part trois of their Grand Chelem 2021. France by 9.
Scotland v Ireland
This is an interesting one. Scotland were very, very good against England and, for the most part, bossed their match against Wales, despite losing. Ireland, on the other hand, have been steadily improving (even taking their straightforward victory in Rome with a pinch of salt). The Scots probably start as favourites, although how they deal with such a traditionally unfamiliar tag will be very informative. Finn Russell is likely to be the difference between the two teams, but will it be in a good way? Scotland, but by less than 7.
