With the 2025 six nations starting tonight, Here are my predictions for the tournament.
Winners- France
It is France’s competition to lose, with the form of the French club teams leaving its players full of confidence. Then the return of Antoine Dupont is vital for the French. As he a player any team would miss of course but everything he does is vital for the French, in being a huge member of the defensive which is enabled by his long kicking game that allows Les Blues to defend in the areas of the field they want to.
Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Penaud when he returns from injury are also absolutely flying and in scintillating form and that paired with the physicality forwards such asnAtonio and Meafou in just their sheer size, the work rate of number eight Gregory Alldritt to get dominance over sides. Then the world class half backs of Dupont and Ntamack to put people in the right areas. It’s going to be an effort to stop Gailthie’s side.
The only thing that may go against them is that they have three away trips which include trips to Twickenham and the Aviva.
Player of the Tournament- Marcus Smith (England)
It would have been easy to stick with the France theme and go with the world’s best player in Dupont. I do believe that the Englishman will stand out in the same way he did in the Autumn for England but hopefully with some more success and gain his side some wins. If his Quins teammate Cadan Murley, who he shares brilliant connection with stays in the starting side, it could lead to some exceptional attacking play from the pair.
Top Try Scorer- Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France)
With Penaud missing the opening game I feel the 21-year-old will be crossing the white line the most this tournament. Just his pure speed and acceleration will cause defenders nightmares, and with Dupont as provider I honestly believe he could end the tournament with double digits.
Biggest shock result- Italy vs Scotland Round 1
I do believe that Italy will kick on from last year and catch Scotland cold on the opening weekend. Even though Scotland lost to the Azzurri last year not many will predict them to lose at Murrayfield. If they do win I do believe they can carry momentum forward and whilst I won’t say they will get a win, I believe Ireland will have trouble in Rome in round five.
Breakthrough Player- Cadan Murley (England)
With my prediction of Smith getting player of the tournament I believe Murley could make a serious claim to that left winger shirt for England, with his club team-mate setting him up. His mix of strength of speed is something not may others in the tournament possess.
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