5 things we learned from the Six Nations

Ireland swept all before them in the Six Nations.

Published Mar 18, 2018

Ireland have emerged as the dominant force in the northern hemisphere after sweeping all before them in the 2018 NatWest 6 Nations.

Here, Press Association Sport examines five things we learned from the tournament.

Take A Bow Ireland

Before the competition began the focus was on England’s search for an unprecedented third successive title as they looked to narrow the gap on New Zealand. Fast forward seven weeks and it is Grand Slam-winning Ireland who have emerged as the biggest threat to the All Blacks supremacy at the 2019 World Cup.

Schmidt’s Homecoming

Joe Schmidt guided Ireland to glory (Paul Harding/PA)

England In Crisis

Eddie Jones has some issues to fix ahead of the World Cup (Adam Davy/PA)

SOS Billy

Billy Vunipola has been missed by England (Adam Davy/PA)

Europe’s In Rude Health

Hadleigh Parkes helped Wales to second place as they struggled with injuries (David Davies/PA)