Ireland tipped for Six Nations win

03/02/2012

Ireland are the favourites to win the Six Nations, according to former England star Jeremy Guscott.

Discussing the championship on a BBC panel also comprising fellow former internationals Andy Nicol of Scotland, Welsh fly-half Jonathan Davies and Irish hooker Keith Wood, Guscott stuck his neck out and claimed the men in green will win.

He said: "My tip for the Six Nations is Ireland. I don't think they will win a Grand Slam, although it could be possible," arguing that the string form of the Irish provincial sides could be a key factor.

Those enjoying hospitality packages at the Aviva Stadium may hope Guscott is tight, although the other three members of the panel predicted that Rugby World Cup finalists France will win.

Keith Wood said his countrymen will probably finish in the top two, whereas Guscott was less optimistic about the new-look England side.

Ireland begin their campaign at home to Wales on Sunday, with Paul O'Connell leading the side while regular captain Brain O'Driscoll recovers from shoulder injury.

By Liz Johnstone