Six Nations – Round 2 preview

Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/James Crombie

Ireland will be looking for redemption against Italy on Saturday after last week’s poor performance which gave Scotland the win. Although deprived of their best player Johnny Sexton, the Irish should gain confidence against the Azzurri, who were thrashed 33-7 by an average Welsh team.

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt wants his players to be ready for the unexpected against Italy, and will want to impress for a shot at the title.

Despite their 19-16 win over France, England will have to improve their game as they aim for their 16th Test win in a row against Wales. England coach Eddie Jones said after the game that he thought his team was “awful” against France, and is expecting a lot more from them in Cardiff.

Wales will be betting on the experience of their team and the backing of their supporters to knock England’s record away from them.

Finally, France are hosting Scotland for what promises to be an animated game. France have suffered three frustrating losses by just a few points in their last test matches and will be looking for a win to complement their good form. Scotland will come to Paris with confidence after their impressive performance against Ireland last weekend, hoping for another upset.