Six Nations - England tipped to challenge France

The Six Nations Championship begins this weekend with France the overwhelming favourites for glory at 4/5 (1.80) with bet365.

With grand slam champions Wales struggling because of a host of injuries, Ireland in something of a rebuilding period and Scotland and Italy are a bit off the pace, England should be the main rivals to French victory this year.

Part of the reason that France are so short in the betting is that the fixtures are in their favour this time round, with home matches against both England and Ireland. However,, as is their way, France have one eye on the World Cup and will not be overly concerned if they do not win the Championship this time.

That said, they have a superb squad full of pace and power and deserve to be favourites. But at 4/5 (1.80) they are too short for me and I prefer the chances of England at 15/8 (2.87).

England getting it right
Coach Andy Robinson is beginning to get the best out of his side after a rocky start to his leadership and the autumn internationals showed promise. The continued absence of Jonny Wilkinson is unfortunate but the return to the squad of Lawrence Dallaglio should be a massive boost to their chances.

Their pack is a formidable outfit and pushed New Zealand all the way in the autumn. If they can control games the way they did for much of that day, then they will be very hard to beat.

As said, Wales are an excellent side, particularly in the backs, but they have been really hit by injuries and they will do very well to retain their crown, not least because they start the campaign against England at Twickenham.

Ireland have a few problems, particularly up front, and while Scotland are improving, and Italy are no mugs these days, England are the most likely to upset France.