NEW DELHI: The
Six Nations 2024
promises an exciting blend of
fresh faces
, tactical shifts, and the quest for supremacy in
European rugby
.
As the teams gear up for the intense competition, let's take a closer look at each squad's dynamics and the
key players
to watch.
England
- Coach: Steve Borthwick
- Captain: Jamie George
- Last Season: Fourth
Amidst significant changes, England enters the tournament with a new captain, Jamie George.
With a bronze medal from the World Cup, England aims to bounce back from previous
Six Nations
campaigns. Despite the absence of key players who opted to play elsewhere, England's theoretically easier opening rounds against Italy and Wales provide an optimistic start. Keep an eye on George Ford, who steps into a pivotal role with the departure of Owen Farrell.
France
- Coach: Fabien Galthié
- Captain: Grégory Alldritt
- Last Season: Second
France faces the Six Nations with the challenge of missing their captain, Antoine Dupont, preparing for the Olympics. France will play home matches around the country, starting with a crucial encounter against Ireland in Marseille. Jonathan Danty becomes a key player, and his performance in midfield could significantly impact France's campaign.
Ireland
- Coach: Andy Farrell
- Captain: Peter O’Mahony
- Last Season: Grand slam
Ireland grapples with the absence of stalwart Johnny Sexton, signaling a new era in Irish
rugby
. Despite the drop in experience at fly-half, Ireland boasts the most seasoned squad in the Six Nations. Peter O’Mahony's leadership will be crucial as Ireland aims for back-to-back grand slams. Watch out for Caelan Doris, a dynamic ball-player at the base of Ireland’s scrum.
Italy
- Coach: Gonzalo Quesada
- Captain: Michele Lamaro
- Last Season: Wooden spoon
Italy, with the most callow squad, dreams of a new era in rugby. Despite recent heavy defeats, the squad, led by Tommaso Menoncello, aims to showcase the talent that has flourished in the junior Six Nations. The continuity of a familiar captain, coupled with a squad based on Benetton Rugby's success, brings hope for Italy's future.
Scotland
- Coach: Gregor Townsend
- Co-captains: Rory Darge/Finn Russell
- Last Season: Third
Scotland adopts a unique co-captaincy model with
Rory Darge
and Finn Russell. Absent
Stuart Hogg
, Scotland will look to make an impact after a challenging World Cup. Blair Kinghorn emerges as a key player, bringing a new dimension to Scotland's backline, especially in the absence of Hogg.
Wales
- Coach: Warren Gatland
- Captain: Dafydd Jenkins
- Last Season: Fifth
Wales faces a rebuilding phase with significant absences, including Louis Rees-Zammit's move to the NFL. Dafydd Jenkins, the youngest Welsh captain since Gareth Edwards, leads a team stripped of experience. Ioan Lloyd becomes a key player, expected to fill the gaps and showcase his versatility in multiple positions. Wales aims for a fresh start in the tournament.
(Inputs from agencies)
English (US) ·