The final straight of the 2024 Six Nations is coming into view as teams head into Round 4.
Ireland have been flawless so far and are now two games away from being the first team to win back-to-back Grand Slams since the Six Nations era began in 2000. Standing in their way in Saturday’s late kickoff is England, who will be hoping their pragmatic brand of rugby will prove to be the leaders’ undoing.
At the other end of the standings, Italy are without a win, but they are not without hope. They were denied a memorable victory against France last time out when Paolo Garbisi’s last-gasp penalty hit the post in an agonising 13-13 stalemate. “It’s going to stay in my head for a while,” Garbisi said afterward. Italy will be hoping it doesn’t, with second-placed Scotland in their sights.
Meanwhile, in the final game of the weekend, winless Wales will look for a bright spot of their own when they take on France.
Here’s all the team news and everything you need to know heading into the weekend.
Italy vs. Scotland, Saturday 2.15pm, Stadio Olimpico, Rome
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England:
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Ireland:
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Wales vs. France, Sunday, 3pm, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
Wales have made five changes to the side that were dominated 31-7 by Ireland in Round 3.
There’s a new look midfield with George North and Nick Tompkins dropping out to be replaced by Joe Roberts and Owen Watkin.
Hooker Ryan Elias comes in to the front-row for his second start of the Championship. Captain Dafydd Jenkins moves to blindside flanker, while Will Rowlands and Adam Beard form the second-row combination.
Gareth Davies has been added to the squad to start from the bench in Cardiff.
Coach Warren Gatland admitted France will pose a tough challenge to his young side.
“There are a few changes to the team this week as there are some players that deserve an opportunity,” Gatland said.
“It’ll be a tough, physical challenge from France on Sunday particularly up front. We know they will start hard and it’s about us staying in the fight, having good line speed defensively and keeping our discipline. We’re looking for an 80 minute performance.
“We’re excited to be back at home for our last two matches and looking forward to getting out in front of a passionate Welsh crowd this weekend.”
Wales: Cameron Winnett, Josh Adams, Joe Roberts, Owen Watkin, Rio Dyer, Sam Costelow, Tomos Williams, Aaron Wainwright, Tommy Reffell, Dafydd Jenkins, Adam Beard, Will Rowlands, Keiron Assiratti, Ryan Elias, Gareth Thomas.
Replacements: Elliot Dee, Corey Domachowski, Dillon Lewis, Alex Mann, Mackenzie Martin, Gareth Davies, Ioan Lloyd, Mason Grady
France:
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