Stephen Ferris’ blog: France too much for Ireland in Six Nations opener
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The Six Nations kicks off tonight, and Stephen Ferris’ blog with Ladbrokes details the former flanker’s predictions for the opener between Ireland and France.
The kick off to the 2024 Six Nations Championship couldn’t be more captivating as the favourites, France and Ireland, clash in Marseille this Friday at 8pm. In a prelude to the Fury vs Usyk showdown later this month, the encounter promises a level of intensity that is only fitting for these heavyweights.
France faces challenges with the absence of key players. Antoine Dupont joins the French 7’s team for Olympic preparations, and injuries sideline Anthony Jelonch and Emmanuel Meafou. Despite these setbacks, France boasts a formidable squad, with imposing figures like Cyril Baille, Uini Atonio, and Peato Mauvaka aiming to dominate the set piece. If Ireland are to give themselves a fighting chance of victory, then this is an arm wrestle that they will need to win.
Known for their attacking flair, France will confront an Irish side that has exhibited consistent fast flowing rugby. Jack Crowley steps into Johnny Sexton’s shoes, and questions linger about his ability to match Sexton’s accuracy, tempo, and goal kicking prowess under pressure. Crowley will have to bring leadership beyond his years to manage his troops around the field of battle. Doing it on a wet Friday night in Thomand Park is one thing but can he do it in the pressure cooker of the Stade Velodrome this Friday… we shall wait and see.
Ireland, opting for a 6-2 split on the bench, introduces impactful players like Jack Conan and Ryan Baird. Unfortunately, Gary Ringrose seems to have picked up a late injury, so Calvin Nash gets his first Six Nations start on the wing, and Ireland have went with a heavy hitting centre partnership in Aki and Henshaw.
Ireland have selected a team with a lot more power than we have seen in recent years. Maybe this is to negate some of that grunt the French will have on their home patch. Both teams, recovering from their Rugby World Cup quarter-final exits, enter the Six Nations Championship with uncertainties. The clash at 8pm on Friday night in Marseille will guarantee answers to the many questions that have been asked of both these teams in recent months. Let the games commence.
