The Six Nations

Ireland are not as good as they think they are, England not as bad as the critics make out and France think they are good … and they are. Les Bleus  ran out easy winners in Dublin even though Antoine Dupont was badly injured and could play no further part after 30 minutes.

Although Sam Prendergast is a great prospect, Ireland are getting old and the match honoured centurions Mahoney, Murray and Healy.

France fell behind but the excellent Bielle-Biarrey restored and lengthened their lead.

Ireland have never gone for beyond the quarters of the World Cup despite their impressive Six Nations record.

They will supply the majority of the British Lions for their forthcoming tour to Australia but this defeat convinced me that there is not a big four but a big three of South Africa, New Zealand and France.

England have never lost to Italy and yesterday did not look likely to do so.

The controversy was the dropping of Marcus Smith but, due to an early injury to Ollie Lawrence, he came on in midfield and looked good.

The apologists for the Azzurri argue that they are improving all the time but they and Wales are the whipping boys of the Six Nations.

So where does that out Scotland who easily beat Wales?

They have some good players but not enough of them. I like their approach as coach Gregor Townsend wants to let the team flow and not be constrained by his computer. However tucked behind England and above Italy and Wales seems right.

England are not very watchable. The last 20 minutes were dreary and France and Scotland are still more attractive on the eye.