1st Feb 2012 | Six Nations
Six Nations Odds: England
It is all change with Stuart Lancaster ushering in a new era. Can his young team make an immediate impression on the Six Nations?
England
Best Odds: 9/2 Boylesports
World Ranking: 5th
2011 Six Nations: 1st
Verdict: It is a strange quirk that the general public love change in sport, although they are never quite so keen on change that impacts upon their own lives. Luckily that isn’t really a problem with the England rugby team - so they are all for it!
After the debacle in New Zealand the scapegoats were rounded up and branded, with Martin Johnson and Mike Tindall leading the herd into the wilderness.
This seems to have pleased bookmakers and public alike. Three players will make their debuts against Scotland, with more likely from the bench. Charlie Hodgson is the most experienced member of the starting XV with 36 caps, starting his first test in four years.
Embracing the change, the bookmakers go no bigger than 9/2 (Boylesports) on England winning the Six Nations. If it takes time for the team to gel, the wooden spoon could be an unwelcome gift at 12/1 with Paddy Power.
One to watch: Owen Farrell
Odds correct at time of publishing: 14:50 1st Feb, 2012 but subject to change
