Six Nations 2025: Pundit predictions on potential winners, star players and Lions bolters

In November, England suffered narrow defeats by Australia and New Zealand, having led those matches heading into the closing stages.

They last won the Six Nations in 2020 and head to Dublin to face champions Ireland on Saturday before hosting France at home.

Former England wing Ugo Monye told BBC Sport: “England are at a stage now that they need to deliver a title. With the player pool, domestic game and finances, they have to do it.

“It is time that the team get a lot closer to their potential.”

The loss of captain Sione Tuipulotu for the championship because of injury was a major blow for Scotland, who host Italy on Saturday.

Former Scotland international Johnnie Beattie told BBC Sport: “This is the best Scottish side I’ve seen. It is the best-coached side and in terms of talent the best since they won the last Five Nations in 1999. However, other sides have a greater depth of talent.

“Tuipulotu has been our brightest spark over the last three years with the way he challenges the gainline physically and brings Huw Jones on to the ball with short passes.

“It will be a huge opportunity for Stafford McDowall, who operated at a high level in the autumn. He knows his role as it is similar to how Glasgow play.

“Success for Scotland would be a top-three finish.”