Six Nations: Backing England or Ireland before round two is wise

Never discount the French when it comes to the Six Nations title, though after an unconvincing opening-weekend win over Scotland in Paris, the general consensus says the 2015 edition is a two-country race.

The betting with Ladbrokes tends to back up this hypothesis. Fresh from stunning Wales in Cardiff a fresh and lively looking England are the strong 5/6 favourites, ahead of defending champions Ireland at 7/4, following their successful trip to Rome where Italy were defeated 26-3.

At least one of defeated nations Wales and Scotland will drop more points at Murrayfield next, so the path towards Six Nations glory becomes that much clearer for the fancied sides, should they win themselves.

It must be assumed that England get the business done at home to Italy and probably in some style judging by the two tries and two near misses against one of the best defences in world rugby in the Millennium Stadium.

In that respect, regardless of what happens in Dublin, where Ireland host France, the odds on Stuart Lancaster’s men are likely to shrink after the next round of games.

Similarly, a win over France for Joe Schmidt’s side and the price on Ireland will likely tumble again.

Not only will another prickly obstacle have been removed in the form of Les Bleus, but with home advantage over the English on matchday three for a possible Grand Slam ‘decider’ the impact will also be felt in the market.

But if the French, who are currently 13/2 chances to win a first title since 2010, end up shocking the Irish then England’s price will shrivel like a crisp packed chucked into a fire.

England host France at Twickenham on the final day of the championship.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

Fancy a flutter? Sign up today to claim up to £25 in free bets.