Andrea Piardi
The name of Andrea Piardi will not have meant much to rugby fans two seasons ago but the Italian has grown into one of rugby’s most trusted officials. Piardi had an excellent match as England defeated New Zealand at Twickenham last November while he received plaudits for the way in which he handled the decisive second Test of last summer’s British and Irish Lions tour in Australia.

When did England and Ireland last win the Six Nations?

England last won the tournament in 2020. England last won the Triple Crown in 2020.

Ireland’s last Grand Slam was in 2023. They won the Triple Crown last year.

Ireland dominated in Dublin last year winning 27-22. Defeat meant England had won only two of their previous nine games.

To win the Six Nations:

• France 2/9
• England 6/1
• Scotland 20/1
• Ireland 40/1
• Italy 100/1
• Wales 500/1