“Who will get their hands on the trophy in 2022?”
STUART BARNES
The former England and Lions fly-half turned analyst
WHAT A difference a year makes. Twelve months ago I was writing my Six Nations preview for Rugby World with the heaviest of hearts. Expectations were at a record low. The 2020 autumn series was a sorry excuse for Test rugby, with coaches like Eddie Jones excusing an utter lack of ambition.
England won that forgettable tournament but lost the plot. Little fresh blood was introduced, little to no new ideas. Wales wallowed in woeful autumnal conditions but at least tried a few new players (even if they decided they were not up to it). Yet it was Wales who claimed last season’s Six Nations title without ever looking remotely like a great team. Other sides’ propensity to have players sent from the field helped them, as did sheer guts, determination and experience. A few of those commodities are not guaranteed this season. The champions are again underdogs. And with good reason.
Scotland are on an upward curve. The squad has depth. Victory against Australia suggests they are close
