Sir Ian McGeechan predicts exciting change to the Six Nations very soon

Renowned rugby legend Sir Ian McGeechan has called for a seventh team to be added to the Six Nations in the near future. Despite many fans calling for relegation to be introduced into the competition, McGeechan would prefer to add world champions and maintain the current closed-shop format.

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The obvious next step is some sort of unified season, with the Springboks joining the Six Nations to become the Seven Nations, McGeechan wrote. Financially this is in everyone’s interests and will also be beneficial in terms of raising standards for England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Italy.

The example of the British and Irish Lions shows that it also has the potential to be embraced by fans as fans travel to South Africa for the long weekend. I must admit that I am biased and that this prospect excites me. I love South African rugby and think it brings a lot to the game.

“I would like to see these ties become even stronger, although I can imagine that prospect will not be greeted with enthusiasm in Auckland and Sydney.”

IHG Breaks New Ground as First Hotel Partner of Six Nations

In a groundbreaking move, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has solidified its presence in the world of international rugby by becoming the first-ever hotel partner of the Six Nations Championship. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for IHG, aligning the global hospitality giant with one of the most prestigious and widely watched rugby tournaments.

A Win-Win Collaboration ahead of Six Nations:

The collaboration between IHG and Six Nations is poised to be a win-win, combining the world-class hospitality services of IHG with the fervor and excitement generated by the Six Nations Championship. As rugby enthusiasts anticipate the upcoming tournament, IHG’s involvement adds a layer of luxury and convenience for fans and teams alike.

Enhancing Fan Experiences:

IHG’s commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences extends to rugby fans attending Six Nations matches. From offering exclusive accommodations to special packages, IHG aims to elevate the overall fan experience. Whether supporters are traveling to witness their favorite teams in action or seeking a comfortable stay near iconic rugby venues, IHG’s diverse portfolio of brands ensures a range of options to suit every preference.

Six Nations – Strategic Locations and Premium Amenities:

IHG’s extensive network of hotels, including renowned brands like InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, and Holiday Inn, strategically positions fans for convenient access to Six Nations match venues. The partnership allows rugby enthusiasts to enjoy premium amenities and a seamless blend of comfort and sophistication during their stay, creating lasting memories beyond the rugby field.

Global Reach and Local Engagement:

As a global hospitality leader, IHG’s partnership with Six Nations extends beyond providing accommodations. The collaboration offers IHG opportunities to engage with local communities, leveraging the excitement surrounding rugby to connect with fans on a personal level. Whether through special events, promotions, or community initiatives, IHG’s involvement adds a dynamic element to the Six Nations experience.

IHG’s Commitment to Sport ahead of Six Nations:

IHG’s venture into rugby sponsorship aligns with the company’s broader commitment to supporting sports and entertainment globally. With a track record of partnering with major sporting events, IHG continues to recognize the power of sports in bringing people together and creating memorable moments. The Six Nations collaboration further underscores IHG’s dedication to enhancing the overall fan journey.

As IHG takes on the role of the first hotel partner of Six Nations, rugby enthusiasts can anticipate an elevated and seamless experience during the championship. The partnership not only demonstrates IHG’s commitment to excellence but also highlights the enduring appeal of rugby as a sport that transcends borders, uniting fans and brands in celebration of athleticism and camaraderie.

Key points ahead of England’s Six Nations squad announcement

With Steve Borthwick set to name his Six Nations squad on Wednesday, what key points should England be focusing on before and during the upcoming Championships? You can also read A Boost for England Six Nations 2024 Campaign- Ellis Genge’s Timely Recovery.

Above all, they need to build on the positives they got from the World Cup and they need to make them harder to beat and stronger defensively. The appointment of Felix Jones, who was part of the South Africa team that won the Webb Ellis Cup in 2019 and retained it last November, could help greatly with that.

Borthwick must then select players who are confident and in good form, as a confident team is dangerous. There’s also something that fans have been screaming about for years; England must score more tries! The attack is about to begin and I believe that if certain players are selected (which I will continue to do) we could really see some interesting things.

Leadership Vacuum: Lawes and Farrell Retire ahead of Six Nations

The biggest announcement in the next few weeks may be who will become England’s new captain, with Courtney Lawes and Owen Farrell retiring from the international scene.

The leaders are Jamie George, George Ford and one of the previous vice-captains Ellis Genge. While the Bristol man still has injury doubts at the tournament, his case for the captaincy is somewhat bolstered by Joe Marler’s injury as he is likely to be a reliable starter. The lack of a clear starting spot could be the reason Ford drops out of the race as he currently faces tough competition from Marcus Smith for 10th place.

In this whole new skipper talk, the most logical choice seems to be Saracens man Jamie George. We can say that he is perhaps one of the first names in the team and a person with a wealth of experience. Eighty-five caps for England and three for the Lions, as well as numerous trophies won with Saracens, speaks volumes.

Who to turn to at loose head?

Borthwick’s biggest selection issue at the moment is the loosening of his options as Bevan Rodd, Val Rapava-Ruskin and recently Marler are all out injured. Then, with the recent retirement of Mako Vunipola from the national team, it looks like someone has the opportunity to claim the No. 1 jersey as their own during the Six Nations.

The hope is that Genge will fit, but we could see some new contenders like Ben Obano finally get to break onto the international stage, or the outside possibility of Quins youngster Fin Baxter appearing in the game with a shout after excellent shape.

However, for me the real debate is in the back line, especially in midfield. The central partnership England took to the World Cup is currently unavailable with Joe Marchand playing cross-Channel rugby in Paris and Manu Tuilagi injured again.

However, Borthwick has options with Henry Slade given his World Cup loss. Ollie Lawrence has moved to Bath, Tommy Freeman has impressed in a superb Northampton side and Elliot Daly, whenever he plays in the center, is always a great player.

Slade would be the favorite at both number 12 and number 13 and I think Lawrence should be his partner. A combination of pace, power and great skill as Smith pulls the strings at 10. Slade also provides the option of a second playmaker in the backfield and offers a level of experience.

Which wings will Borthwick pick?

The other two places up for grabs in the England Six Nations Team starting line-up are on the wings. With Jonny May and Anthony Watson both just back from injury leaving, this seems like a great opportunity to bring in new players.

A current player and player who could provide the X-factor that England have been lacking of late is Exeter’s Emmanuel Fahey-Waboso. Scoring goals, smashing players for fun and tearing apart defenses is something the Chiefs starlet has excelled at in recent weeks.

Is he raw as a player? Yes. Are there areas in his game that might be lacking? Yes, but as I said, confident players can be dangerous opponents, and against Italy in England’s Six Nations opener on February 3 could be the perfect place for him to make his international debut.

As for the other options, Freeman was dominant in the middle for Northampton but was excellent on the wing, especially with a slight increase in size. His versatility could improve his chances of being included in Borthwick’s plans. There are still two Bath strikers. Joe Cocanasiga, who will be watching to see if he can finally make it big at international level again, and Will Muir, who can’t stop finishing off strikes for the in-form Blue, Black and White.

James’ Predicted England XV for Six Nations

• Ellis Genge
• Jamie George – Capt
• Dan Cole
• Maro Itoje
• George Martin
• Ollie Chessum
• Sam Underhill

• Ben Earl
• Alex Mitchell
• Marcus Smith
• Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
• Ollie Lawrence
• Henry Slade
• Tommy Freeman
• Freddie Steward

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