Opening weekend of the 2013 Six Nations Championship. Time for passions to be stirred, rivalry’s renewed and vocal chords loosened. Very few sporting tournaments bring about such emotions as we will see over the next few weeks. Add to all this, the top quality rugby that will be produced by the best sides in the Northern Hemisphere.
In particular the games between the British Isles and Ireland produce feverish atmospheres and patriotic pride like no other. From the belting out of the national anthems, to the cheering of every tackle, every kick, every scrum and certainly every try, packed crowds provide the soundtrack to this most incredible of nationalistic contest. Rugby combines all these elements and yet maintains respect for your opponents and opposition supporters.
This is where football failed. Footballs home nations championship became a violent affair and was eventually scrapped. However, given falling violence at football stadiums and the improvement in security and policing, surely a return for the tournament should be investigated further, given the atmosphere and enthusiasm that is seen in Rugby’s equivalent.
As for the rugby itself, this six nations should prove to be as closely contested as any before it. England can perhaps claim to be the favourites having beaten the World Champions New Zealand in the Autumn. However they remain inconsistent and inexperienced and so every game will be a battle for them if they are to claim the championship this year. Wales had a dreadful Autumn and so will be massive outsiders to retain their Grand Slam. Having said that, they remain a quality outfit and can never be backed against. Similarly France will be there or thereabouts. Always the question is which France will turn up, but we know they have flair players who can produce flashes of brilliance and can beat anybody and everybody at will. Ireland will also be in the mix. They have terrific experience mixed with real quality right across the park. While they didn’t have a great Autumn either, don’t be surprised to see them fighting it out for the title come the back end of the tournament. Italy and Scotland will surely, as usual, battle it out to avoid the wooden spoon. Both sides never lack effort or commitment, but also both sides lack real quality and class.
So sit yourselves down, settle yourselves in and get ready to scream yourselves hoarse in support of your nation. Such opportunities to display patriotism are thin on the ground so make the most of this. The Six Nations provides sport at its peak, driven by passion and grounded in professionalism. Enjoy!
