Six Nations 2022 predictions: our writers on who will win and why

Who will win? Ireland. They’ve gone quietly about their business, there doesn’t seem to be any great sense of hyperbole about them, but they beat New Zealand in the autumn, are coming strolling into the Six Nations and are red-hot favourites to beat the reigning champions.

Predicted order Ireland, England, France, Scotland, Wales, Italy.

Key match? The second week is crucial and while Wales v Scotland could be pivotal, France v Ireland is blockbuster. France’s tournament begins for real then but it’s always tight and memories of Johnny Sexton’s late drop goal will still be fresh.

Best player? Antoine Dupont may seem the obvious choice but has not played too much recently and there is no hiding place for him as the world player of the year. Everyone will be looking to put pressure on the most influential player in French rugby.

Breakthrough player? A few possibilities – Mack Hansen, the uncapped Ireland wing, could burst on to the scene like Louis Rees-Zammit last year and on the subject of Wales, Johnny McNicholl, Taine Basham and Ellis Jenkins could take the next step up.

I can’t wait for … The chance to see players smiling post-match. Unfortunately it was an enduring image of last year’s tournament when Rees-Zammit had scored that wonder try against Scotland but had to wear a mask when doing his TV interview.

Who will win? France. Or Ireland. Or maybe Scotland. The championship grows more fiendishly competitive: the only certainty is that a grand slam will be a mighty achievement. Pin me down and I’ll plump for France on points difference.

Predicted order France, Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Italy.

Key match? There are plenty but France v Ireland in Paris in round two will fundamentally influence the title