The wait is almost over as the Six Nations returns to our screens this weekend!
Excitement is reaching fever pitch as back-to-back champions Ireland prepare to launch their title defence against old foes England in Dublin on Saturday.
Former Munster and Ireland star Simon Zebo teamed up with us here at BoyleSports to preview Ireland’s Six Nations opening clash with England this Saturday. BoyleSports will Pay Out Early if either side goes 17 points ahead at any stage.
Zebo spoke exclusively to us about the key talking points heading into this tournament including; the game that he is billing as the title decider, a potential chink in the Irish armour, whether it should be Crowley or Prendergast starting at no. 10, the player he believes will be the x-factor for the Irish, and what it takes to win the Six Nations.
2025 Six Nations Preview – Simon Zebo Exclusive
This Game Will Be The Six Nations Decider
“France are going to pose a huge threat in Dublin and for me, that will be the decider. Teams are working out how to stop our shapes and structure, so we need to evolve the game plan a bit.
Ireland win Grand Slam – 10/3
Is This Ireland’s Fatal Flaw?
“We also need to get a bit more depth in the squad. Experience is great, but we also need youth pushing through, competing for places with Calean Doris, Peter O’Mahony, Cian Healy and Conor Murray. Hopefully, Sam Prendergast can get more minutes under his belt.”
The Irish No. 10 Debate – Prendergast v Crowley
“Everyone can see Sam’s talent and obvious skill set and the amazing things he’s capable of doing on the Rugby field. I love watching him play and he doesn’t have a ceiling, he can go all the way to being one of the best 10s in the world.
“But we are very quick to push players out there. Jack Crowley, with what he’s done in a Munster jersey and an Ireland jersey, has huge credit in the bank. I don’t think he should be pushed out for the sake of it. If an injury comes or if Sam has a great game against an Italy or Scotland, then we can use him more. As of now, you have to show faith in the best 10 in the country and that’s Jack.”
Jack Crowley Top Six Nations Points Scorer – 12/1
Could This Munster Wing Be The X-Factor Ireland Need?
“I think Calvin Nash could be Ireland’s star man. If he gets the jersey, it’ll be hard to take it off him. If he gets on a good run of form early in the tournament, he has the ability to kick on and potentially get on the plane with the Lions, I think he’s that good.
He has all the attributes to be that X-factor player for Ireland going forward. He has the wheels, the nous, the handling ability, and that dog in him defensively to have a breakthrough season.”
Calvin Nash Top Tryscorer – 25/1
This is the Key To Winning A Six Nations
“From my experience, defence is a big part of it, being able to shut out the star teams, the Frances and the Englands. Having that last 20 or 30 minutes under control and everyone knowing what they’re doing and being on the same page.
“That period of the game is usually crucial. Whether it be backfield coverage, frontline or chip cover, there are so many defensive things that might fall off in that final quarter. But the top sides, the champion sides have usually squared up.”
Ireland to Win Six Nations – 7/4
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