Six Nations Betting: Grand Slam Decider?

The Six Nations returns this weekend and there is one standout clash, but more of that later.

First off at 14:30 it is Italy v Wales at Stadio Flaminio, a stadium that doesn’t hold happy memories for the welsh. In the five encounters in Rome, Wales have contrived to lose twice. Another defeat and serious questions will be asked of Warren Gatland.

The bookmakers are confident Wales will be ok and are 2/9 to win with Betfred. With Jonathan Davies out injured and a lack of cover at centre, James Hook is forced to move from fly-half with Stephen Jones taking his position. Although never one to show weakness, Warren Gatland must be desperate for Gavin Henson to return to form so that Hook can stay at fly-half – Wales have never lost a Six Nations game when he has played there.

The game at 17:00 is being billed as the Grand Slam decider as the only two unbeaten teams face-off at Twickenham. “Le Crunch” is already looking tasty. France coach Marc Lievremont is doing his best to tear up the Entente Cordiale by calling England, “This insular country, who always drape themselves in the national flag, their hymns, their chants, their traditions.”

If his team are half as gracious as their coach, the 3.7/1 available on Betfair for a red card to be shown this Six Nations looks generous.

Ireland travel to Murryfield on Sunday to play for the Centenary Quaich. Last year Scotland shocked Ireland at Croke Park with a 20-23 victory, their first over Ireland in nine years. They are 21/10 with bet365 to surprise everyone again.

After defeats last week both coaches have reverted to the safety first option, with kicking machines Ronan O’Gara and Chris Paterson restored to the starting XV.  It is therefore no surprise to see William Hill go 2/7 that the first try is converted. That is assuming someone gets over the line in the first place.