The 6N 'Teach Yourself Something' Thread

[George Carlin]

I started a moderately popular thread a while ago and I'd like to resurrect it with the Six Nations looming.

I follow as many leagues as comprehensively as I can but inevitably there are gaps in my knowledge and I'd like to be better informed by the time that the tournament starts. So let's try this again.

A. RULES

1. Posters may post as many questions to the thread as they like.

2. Questions cannot be WUMmery and any attempts will be deleted. They must be genuine queries aimed at answering something you just don't know (but would like to) about another 6 Nations squad or matchday team.

3. All questions should be addressed to a particular set of fans at the beginning.

4. Try very hard not to ask a question without having at least thrown in your six cents worth answering another one first. These threads only work if everyone chips in.

5. When responding to a query, if you can please use the 'reply' function to grab the query you're answering.

6. You don't have to be one of the 'addressed' fans to answer any question. But it's nice if you are.

7. This is intended to be different from the 'build up' thread because (hopefully) it deals with specific questions rather than general banter and paddywhackery.

B. STARTING QUESTIONS

Happy to go first. I'd really like to know the answers to these:

1. Ireland Fans - I have absolutely no idea how the Irish midfield will look. Cave and Marshall look like an excellent, comfortable combination for Ulster but is this any reason to unseat the incumbents of BOD and Darcy? Downey and Earls hardly seem to have mustered any tries between them all season.

Provincial rivalries aside, what should be the combination for Ireland, with one eye to the next world cup?

2. Wales fans - Clearly, there is a genuine injury crisis at lock and also some issues with the front row. What should the tight five be, given the reality of who will recover in time and can this unit realistically compete in the 6N? What are the signs?

3. England fans - another forwards question - the tight five seems to have settled a little, with Launchbury and Parling now seeming to be the incumbents. The loosies, however, are another matter. What do fans think is England's best combination and why? In particular, is Tom Wood really the answer at blind and can England continue to look to Morgan when Easter seems to be in a purple patch?

4. France fans - with great club form, a forward pack all firing (with Dus, Bonnaire and the HairyKnorrDonkey about to resume their partnership yet again), an astonishing variety of quality prop options and with the best inside centre and wings in Europe, what will stop France winning this tournament?

5. Italy fans - now that you have a well settled, quality front row (Lo Cicero, Festuccia and Castro) and Barbieri to give Parisse and Zanni some help in the back row, are there any international quality lock forwards on the horizon? Seems to be the one missing piece in an Italian team with genuine try scorers in Masi, Benvenuti and Canale.

Thanks all.

[formerly known as Sam]

Easter won't be selected despite his consistently excellent form because he is significantly on the wrong side of 30. Personally I'd have liked to see Lancaster keep him and tell the young guns they have to take the shirt off him. I think Wood and Robshaw will be on the flanks with Haskell on the bench until Croft is fully fit.

[majesticimperialman]

The question i would like ask Welsh fans is, with Stephen Jones being retired now from international rugby. Rys Priestland being out injured.
Dan Biggar with be the starting 10. Who will be the next in line if he gets injured?

[21st Century Schizoid Man]

Nothing for Italy George ?

[George Carlin]

Nothing for Italy George ?

Apologies. Sorted. Would love to see more Italian fans on these boards.

[Peter Seabiscuit Wheeler]

Easter won't be selected despite his consistently excellent form because he is significantly on the wrong side of 30. Personally I'd have liked to see Lancaster keep him and tell the young guns they have to take the shirt off him. I think Wood and Robshaw will be on the flanks with Haskell on the bench until Croft is fully fit.

Agrred, Lancaster wont pick Easter unless theres a huge injury crisis.
The backrow for now is pretty settled, Robshaw is Captain Wonderful (despite his stupid lips and inability to work out what to do with penalties) and alongside Wood and fatty Morgan they offer a real range of skills. Haskell off the bench is a great all rounder. Id be v surprised to see that changed for the 6 nations starters, so long as Morgans continued to improve his 80 minutes fitness and they all stay injury free.
Croft is a long way off disrupting that group, hes unlikely to play in the 6 nations under Drs orders...but will be in direct competition for Woods spot next season. He may feature in the Argentina games, but that also may depend on who goes with the Lions. Its not inconceivable though that none of the England backrow will go, Gatland intimated a while back that Robshaw doesnt fit what hes looking for in a 7 ( but may force his way in, as could Wood or even Morgan who he rated highly enough to tap up for Wales a couple of years ago. As for taking Haskells bench spot...Im not even convinced by that as Haskell covers the entire backrow, whereas Croft is very much just an athletic flanker and not really strong in the rucking skills ... unless his new beefcake persona has also involved injecting Neil Backs DNA

Injuries though are what usually create opportunities for other players. England are really as free of those as I ever remember them being going into a 6 nations series, its a very fortunate situation to be in (compared to Wales who have half a pack missing by the looks of it). So long as it stays that way, and they keep winning , I think the backrow is settled for the time being.

[Guest]

The question i would like ask Welsh fans is, with Stephen Jones being retired now from international rugby. Rys Priestland being out injured.
Dan Biggar with be the starting 10. Who will be the next in line if he gets injured?

Is he retired, or have you made that up?

[emack2]

Interesting comments on Thomas Waldron played Super rugby as did his brother Scott to a good level.The sort of player who does his job game after game consistently good basic skills etc.
Nothing flash plays number 8 in the NZ style i.e. does the graft FIRST then the loose stuff.Check the quoted Tackle stats 15 made,ZERO MISSED,he plays the position as a Tight Forward.
Tom Croft isn`t sure if he is a 6 or a 5 ,where do the likes of Ben Foden and the Armitages etc.fit in.
Who is going to be the established 10 we have had so many since JW?
Lancaster may go with younger players now on the build up for RWC bit,since the trainspotters don`t rate side that have never won one.
One tournament at a time has always been my ethos but my antipathy to RWCs is well known.

[majesticimperialman]

The question i would like ask Welsh fans is, with Stephen Jones being retired now from international rugby. Rys Priestland being out injured.
Dan Biggar with be the starting 10. Who will be the next in line if he gets injured?

Is he retired, or have you made that up?

Risca Rev.

I do believe he is retired from the international game, that is why he plays for London Wasp now.

I could be wrong. and if i am i am sure you will correct me. right?

[king_carlos]

4. France fans - with great club form, a forward pack all firing (with Dus, Bonnaire and the HairyKnorrDonkey about to resume their partnership yet again), an astonishing variety of quality prop options and with the best inside centre and wings in Europe, what will stop France winning this tournament?

Bonnaire and Harinordoquy aren't in the squad anymore George! PSA has stated that if given the choice between two similar players he is going to plump with the younger one with an eye to the WC. The back-row during the AI's was Nyanga, Ouedrago, Picamoles which did very well and may well keep their places. Dusautoir is back but Toulouse have been struggling to he may have to start the tournament on the bench - though I'd select him personally.

In terms of the championship the only thing I can see stopping them is Michalak having another blip. He has been playing very well for a sustained period of time now but is still prone to the occasional blip which in a close game could hurt them. Other than that I've got them as clear favourites though, equally Michalak can still turn it on and go from good to exceptional which with the backline at his disposal could be scary. The other point I'd make that England may try to target with Cole at our disposal is LH, Domingo hasn't been as good since his return from injury (though still pretty solid) and Forrestier is talented but inexperienced.

Les Blues are favourites in my eyes though.

[wales606]

The question i would like ask Welsh fans is, with Stephen Jones being retired now from international rugby. Rys Priestland being out injured.
Dan Biggar with be the starting 10. Who will be the next in line if he gets injured?

Is he retired, or have you made that up?

Risca Rev.

I do believe he is retired from the international game, that is why he plays for London Wasp now.

I could be wrong. and if i am i am sure you will correct me. right?

He never retired from international rugby, he just moved to Wasps. If Gatland/Howley want to pick him, they can. But they won't because he is over 30.

In order of preference, the Welsh 10s are...
Dan Biggar
James Hook
Rhys Patchell
then there is nobody

.......................

The starting pack for the Ireland game

1. Paul James
2. Richard Hibbard (injured today /Matthew Rees)
3. Adam Jones
4. Ian Evans (if he returns from injury/Lou Reed)
5. Ryan Jones (injured today/James King)
6. Dan Lydiate (if he returns from injury/Aaron Shinger/Ryan Jones (Reed to lock)/Sam Warburton)
7. Justin Tipuric
8. Toby Faletau

[welshy6]

The question i would like ask Welsh fans is, with Stephen Jones being retired now from international rugby. Rys Priestland being out injured.
Dan Biggar with be the starting 10. Who will be the next in line if he gets injured?

Is he retired, or have you made that up?

Risca Rev.

I do believe he is retired from the international game, that is why he plays for London Wasp now.

I could be wrong. and if i am i am sure you will correct me. right?

I have never seen him officially state he has retired like Shane, but I think Gatland has taken the opinion he is too old and with the emergence of Priestland in 2011 along with Hook, Biggar and even tango man.

[welshy6]

The question i would like ask Welsh fans is, with Stephen Jones being retired now from international rugby. Rys Priestland being out injured.
Dan Biggar with be the starting 10. Who will be the next in line if he gets injured?

Is he retired, or have you made that up?

Risca Rev.

I do believe he is retired from the international game, that is why he plays for London Wasp now.

I could be wrong. and if i am i am sure you will correct me. right?

He never retired from international rugby, he just moved to Wasps. If Gatland/Howley want to pick him, they can. But they won't because he is over 30.

In order of preference, the Welsh 10s are...
Dan Biggar
James Hook
Rhys Patchell
then there is nobody

.......................

The starting pack for the Ireland game

1. Paul James
2. Richard Hibbard (injured today /Matthew Rees)
3. Adam Jones
4. Ian Evans (if he returns from injury/Lou Reed)
5. Ryan Jones (injured today/James King)
6. Dan Lydiate (if he returns from injury/Aaron Shinger/Ryan Jones (Reed to lock)/Sam Warburton)
7. Justin Tipuric
8. Toby Faletau

Well there is a certain London Welsh player who is returning from injury...
also I would rather have Owen on the bench in place of Rees.
Also I would consider Lewis Evans as a potential 6 he has been on fire lately

[maestegmafia]

"2. Wales fans - Clearly, there is a genuine injury crisis at lock and also some issues with the front row. What should the tight five be, given the reality of who will recover in time and can this unit realistically compete in the 6N? What are the signs? "

Lock is seriously looking very bad, three or four players out again.

I would like to see James King, Richard Kelly or Lloyd Peers get a chance. Peers has already spent some time with the squad last autumn.

Front row is looking better with Gethin Jenkins, Paul James and Ryan Bevington all looking good, Hibbard, Rees and Owens all fit, Adam Jones, Samson Lee and Scott Andrews all fit.

Thought Bevington, Hibbard and Jones looked great today.

My personal choices would be Gethin Jenkins, Richard Hibbard, Adam Jones with Ian Evans and James King at lock. Reserves would be James, Rees, Andrews and Peers as lock cover.

[wales606]

Gethin Jenkins, Paul James and Ryan Bevington all looking good, Hibbard, Rees and Owens all fit, Adam Jones, Samson Lee and Scott Andrews all fit.
.

Gethin Jenkins is injured, before that he had played 1 game in months and is not probably 3rd choice at Toulon.

Unless he does a u-turn and accepts the wages the Blues have offered him, I don't think he will be on the international radar this time next year.

[wales606]

How is Rhys Gill playing by the way?

[bedfordwelsh]

Gethin Jenkins, Paul James and Ryan Bevington all looking good, Hibbard, Rees and Owens all fit, Adam Jones, Samson Lee and Scott Andrews all fit.
.

Gethin Jenkins is injured, before that he had played 1 game in months and is not probably 3rd choice at Toulon.

Unless he does a u-turn and accepts the wages the Blues have offered him, I don't think he will be on the international radar this time next year.

Unfortunately if he recovers from injury we all know he will be the squad come tuesday

[theslosty]

Ireland time.

There are a lot of potential combinations for the 12/13 jerseys.

Gordon D'arcy - hasn't shown much form in the green for the last two years but is performing well for Leinster. Has understanding with Sexton/BOD but surely won't make it for RWC 2015.

Fergus MacFadden - performing well on the wing for Leinster this season but isn't really a world-class centre.

Luke Marshall - despite little game time he was a popular choice for 12 until he fractured his hand - out for 4-5 weeks.

Luke Fitzgerald - since starting against SA for the Lions in 2009 he has been rocked by injury but reminded us of his class against Scarlets on Saturday. Hasn't played in the centre for a while though.

Brian O'Driscoll - we all trust that class is permanent but he needs to manage his injuries.

Keith Earls - filled in for BOD in 2012 but it's vastly agreed he is much better suited to the wing.

This is Deccie we're talking about so you can put your house on D'arcy/BOD but personally I'd love to see Fitz being given a run at 12 even if it is a bit of a gamble.

The selection may chop and change throughout the 6N however.

[theslosty]

Forgot Darren Cave - he has been solid if unspectacular for Ulster this year (apart from solo try on Friday) but the level of competition makes it unlikely for him to nail down a starting berth.

[Glas a du]

2. Wales fans - Clearly, there is a genuine injury crisis at lock and also some issues with the front row. What should the tight five be, given the reality of who will recover in time and can this unit realistically compete in the 6N? What are the signs?

Crisis, what crisis? Gough, King and Reed are fit. Functional if not spectacular. I would go for Jones, Hibbard, Jones to compensate in the scrum. Gill, Owens and Mitchell as back up. Sure, twill be just fine now.

[George Carlin]

4. France fans - with great club form, a forward pack all firing (with Dus, Bonnaire and the HairyKnorrDonkey about to resume their partnership yet again), an astonishing variety of quality prop options and with the best inside centre and wings in Europe, what will stop France winning this tournament?

Bonnaire and Harinordoquy aren't in the squad anymore George! PSA has stated that if given the choice between two similar players he is going to plump with the younger one with an eye to the WC. The back-row during the AI's was Nyanga, Ouedrago, Picamoles which did very well and may well keep their places. Dusautoir is back but Toulouse have been struggling to he may have to start the tournament on the bench - though I'd select him personally.

In terms of the championship the only thing I can see stopping them is Michalak having another blip. He has been playing very well for a sustained period of time now but is still prone to the occasional blip which in a close game could hurt them. Other than that I've got them as clear favourites though, equally Michalak can still turn it on and go from good to exceptional which with the backline at his disposal could be scary. The other point I'd make that England may try to target with Cole at our disposal is LH, Domingo hasn't been as good since his return from injury (though still pretty solid) and Forrestier is talented but inexperienced.

Les Blues are favourites in my eyes though.

Exactly why I created this thread. Thanks Carlos.

Didn't realise Bonnaire has actually formally retired from internationals!

[king_carlos]

4. France fans - with great club form, a forward pack all firing (with Dus, Bonnaire and the HairyKnorrDonkey about to resume their partnership yet again), an astonishing variety of quality prop options and with the best inside centre and wings in Europe, what will stop France winning this tournament?

Bonnaire and Harinordoquy aren't in the squad anymore George! PSA has stated that if given the choice between two similar players he is going to plump with the younger one with an eye to the WC. The back-row during the AI's was Nyanga, Ouedrago, Picamoles which did very well and may well keep their places. Dusautoir is back but Toulouse have been struggling to he may have to start the tournament on the bench - though I'd select him personally.

In terms of the championship the only thing I can see stopping them is Michalak having another blip. He has been playing very well for a sustained period of time now but is still prone to the occasional blip which in a close game could hurt them. Other than that I've got them as clear favourites though, equally Michalak can still turn it on and go from good to exceptional which with the backline at his disposal could be scary. The other point I'd make that England may try to target with Cole at our disposal is LH, Domingo hasn't been as good since his return from injury (though still pretty solid) and Forrestier is talented but inexperienced.

Les Blues are favourites in my eyes though.

Exactly why I created this thread. Thanks Carlos.

Didn't realise Bonnaire has actually formally retired from internationals!

I didn't realise he'd fully retired actually.

Where are the mods, our 606 mummies and daddies should witness us learning together!

[neilthom7]

On the Ireland questions I think with Deccie we will see D'Arcy start inside centre especially as Luke Marshall is out now. Brian O'Driscoll will start outside centre presuming he makes it off course watching him in the last few weeks he looks like he could get injured again at any second. If he doesn't make it Deccie will almost certainly revert to Earls. I think Kearney will start fullback which makes the irish wing spots with Tommy Bowe ruled out the most interesting and unpredictable part of the selection.

[neilthom7]

The Irony for Ireland is Earls wants to play centre but is a better wing however his choice is proably whats going to get him the most gametime as behind BOD we don't have amazing options we have Earls, Cave who is solid and can sometimes show great class but certainly is no O'Driscoll and then we are really looking at guys who play wing most of the time coming in. Although I am a big fan of Eoin O'Malley so maybe in a few years he will break in and with some great young players coming through at Connacht what we really need is one of Earls or Cave to step up and plug the gap for a few years.

[Chjw131]

He never retired from international rugby, he just moved to Wasps. If Gatland/Howley want to pick him, they can. But they won't because he is over 30.

In order of preference, the Welsh 10s are...
Dan Biggar
James Hook
Rhys Patchell
then there is nobody

.......................

The starting pack for the Ireland game

1. Paul James
2. Richard Hibbard (injured today /Matthew Rees)
3. Adam Jones
4. Ian Evans (if he returns from injury/Lou Reed)
5. Ryan Jones (injured today/James King)
6. Dan Lydiate (if he returns from injury/Aaron Shinger/Ryan Jones (Reed to lock)/Sam Warburton)
7. Justin Tipuric
8. Toby Faletau

Surely Steve Shingler will be getting a call from the WRU?

As far as England goes we won't be seeing any change from the AI back-row as a preferred starting unit, but I have a feeling we'll see Callum Clarke make an appearance against Italy. Although he wouldn't be a choice of mine on form. Morgan has all the potential but he needs another game like he had v Ireland in 2012 to prop up his reputation. Otherwise we'll see Billy Vunipola pushing with the Argie tour a platform for him.

I'd like to know what back-row the Scottish fans would like to see (I think Rennie is injured?) now that Beattie is back in the squad.

Also, is there a preference for Paul Marshall over Connor Murray at Sh for Ireland?

[neilthom7]

Also, is there a preference for Paul Marshall over Connor Murray at Sh for Ireland?[/quote]

Not really Murray has picked up form recently and Marshall hasn't done enough to displace him in my opinion, Marshall is the perfect option to spring from the bench though a real livewire and unpredictable for the opposition when they are tired, an impact sub

[theslosty]

Also, is there a preference for Paul Marshall over Connor Murray at Sh for Ireland?

Not really Murray has picked up form recently and Marshall hasn't done enough to displace him in my opinion, Marshall is the perfect option to spring from the bench though a real livewire and unpredictable for the opposition when they are tired, an impact sub[/quote]

Agree with this I was pushing more for Paul's selection that Gilroy's but tbf Murray has pulled the finger out.

Big call at seven as well between Henry and POM, although I'd be happy with either.

[funnyExiledScot]

I'd like to know what back-row the Scottish fans would like to see (I think Rennie is injured?) now that Beattie is back in the squad.

There's quite a bit of debate on this amongst Scotland fans.

From the current squad selected (which rules out Rennie and Barclay), if you go with players in their natural postions, the likely back row is:

6.Brown 7.Fusaro 8.Beattie

Denton on the bench.

This takes into account that Brown is outstanding at 6 and Scotland captain, Fusaro (debutant) is the only fit natural 7 in the squad and Beattie's recent form shading Denton to 8.

Glasgow fans will probably argue for Wilson or Harley on the bench ahead of Denton (I'm an Edinburgh fan).

I suppose the alternative (to those who are not comfortable starting Fusaro at Twickenham) is as follows:

6.Denton (or Harley) 7.Brown 8.Beattie

Harley (or Denton) on the bench.

Either way, on form, Beattie must now start at 8.

[neilthom7]

Also, is there a preference for Paul Marshall over Connor Murray at Sh for Ireland?

Not really Murray has picked up form recently and Marshall hasn't done enough to displace him in my opinion, Marshall is the perfect option to spring from the bench though a real livewire and unpredictable for the opposition when they are tired, an impact sub

Agree with this I was pushing more for Paul's selection that Gilroy's but tbf Murray has pulled the finger out.

Big call at seven as well between Henry and POM, although I'd be happy with either.[/quote]
Being an Ulster supporter I hope Henry gets in I think the irony is if SOB plays at 6 because 1F is injured and Henry plays seven we will probably have a better balanced back row than other years with Henry being a working 7 allowing SOB to do his bash routine.

[InjuredYetAgain]

A question for English fans - how do you feel about picking players who quailfy via residency rules?
Are you not massively bothered, do you think it has devalued the England jersey or as long as you win, you aren't too bothered whether they are black or white, tall or short, thin or fat, ugly or very ugly etc

[majesticimperialman]

If the rules say they can play for England, and they are good enough to play for England, and they want to play for England. I dont personaly have a problem with it.

If they have lived in England for the required time and have given 100% to the England shirt. Then why should it matter if they are not (Born) in this country.

[InjuredYetAgain]

I know the rules permit it but i was wondering if the English guys thought you had gone a bit far in taking "advantage" (too harsh a word but I can't think of a better one) of the rules.
Let's take it further - how about the RL converts? Do you think they get fast-tracked or is their integration being done at the right time and based on merit. Looking back you had Henry Paul who was fast-tracked and didn't really make the grade

[majesticimperialman]

With regards to RL converts. Yes a few of them do/did get fast tracked in to the England team. Some of them when they come in to the team do make a difference. But their are some who are complete disaster. Henry Paul, Leslie Vanecola. to name just 2 for England.

Even Andy Farrell, when he came into rugby union and straight in to the England team, they could not decide what position he should play, was he a back row, 2nd row, centre? nobody seemed to know. AF had won just about every thing their was to win in RL. But when he came in to union, he was like a fish out of water.

So i guess it depends on the individual realy.

[robbo277]

A question for English fans - how do you feel about picking players who quailfy via residency rules?
Are you not massively bothered, do you think it has devalued the England jersey or as long as you win, you aren't too bothered whether they are black or white, tall or short, thin or fat, ugly or very ugly etc

For me the disappointing thing with some of the players that were being called into the England squad showed up the fact that we weren't producing better players (ie we couldn't produce a better 12 than Hape or Flutey). My problem wasn't with Hape or Flutey themselves. I think we were going through a lean period though, and looking at the age group side we appear to be coming out of it.

It's upsetting seeing players like Tom Heathcote turn out for Scotland, despite representing England at Under-20 level. I would like to see it easier for players to be tied into one nation, but the qualification criteria (and residency) - in my opinion - aren't miles off as they are.

This obviously works both ways and whether this tightening of the qualification criteria would have meant that players such as Hape (with his league caps), Flutey (with his Maori caps) or Barritt (with his emerging SA caps) depends on where you draw the line, and of course there are arguments that none of them should have been allowed to play for England.

Although we do have quite a few foreign born players now in our squad (Corbisiero, Hartley, M. Vunipola, Johnson, B. Vunipola, Waldrom, Barritt and Tuilagi), a lot of them grew up here (at least during their teenage years) and haven't represented another country at any sport or any level. The only ones that irk me slightly are Johnson and Waldrom, but that is because I'm not convinced their good enough, as opposed to me not being convinced they are "English enough".

[Chjw131]

A question for English fans - how do you feel about picking players who quailfy via residency rules?
Are you not massively bothered, do you think it has devalued the England jersey or as long as you win, you aren't too bothered whether they are black or white, tall or short, thin or fat, ugly or very ugly etc

For me the disappointing thing with some of the players that were being called into the England squad showed up the fact that we weren't producing better players (ie we couldn't produce a better 12 than Hape or Flutey). My problem wasn't with Hape or Flutey themselves. I think we were going through a lean period though, and looking at the age group side we appear to be coming out of it.

It's upsetting seeing players like Tom Heathcote turn out for Scotland, despite representing England at Under-20 level. I would like to see it easier for players to be tied into one nation, but the qualification criteria (and residency) - in my opinion - aren't miles off as they are.

This obviously works both ways and whether this tightening of the qualification criteria would have meant that players such as Hape (with his league caps), Flutey (with his Maori caps) or Barritt (with his emerging SA caps) depends on where you draw the line, and of course there are arguments that none of them should have been allowed to play for England.

Although we do have quite a few foreign born players now in our squad (Corbisiero, Hartley, M. Vunipola, Johnson, B. Vunipola, Waldrom, Barritt and Tuilagi), a lot of them grew up here (at least during their teenage years) and haven't represented another country at any sport or any level. The only ones that irk me slightly are Johnson and Waldrom, but that is because I'm not convinced their good enough, as opposed to me not being convinced they are "English enough".

Johnson? Do you mean Tom Johnson? You do realise he was born in Germany because his Father was stationed there with the British Army I take it? That's like people listing Simon Shaw as non-English because he was born in Kenya to English parents.

Alex Corbisiero was born in New York state but moved here when he was four; with his English mother.

Likewise the Vunipola's have been in the country since they were quite young, first living in Wales incidentally but have played all their age-grade rugby for England. I don't know why some of these so called 'foreign' players seem to attract so much adverse attention.

The only issue I have with players coming in from outside the country is the length of time it takes for them to qualify. In my opinnion a five or seven year residency rule would be better. I believe one can request citizenship after seven years. The likes of Hartley and Tuiagi have been here since they were 15 and 12 I believe and I don't really even consider them to be foreign players. If they're prepared to play the age grades for England and settle their professional careers here I don't think they should even be counted as foreign. As far as Waldrom goes I have a bit more of an issue there. Barritt I believe has an English Mother and extended family.

[George Carlin]

Questions for Ireland fans - where do you feel that the team is now after the battering by NZ (save for the second test where the team acquitted themselves brilliantly) and given recent Ulster form?

On paper, it's a very good front row (two thirds of a Lions front row in my opinion), a well balanced back row if you go for SOB at 6, Henry at 7 and Heaslip at 8 and talent all along the three quarters. How do you reconcile this with other posters on 606 not predicting great things from the Irish team in this tournament? What is the Irish press saying?

[aqualung]

5. Italy fans - now that you have a well settled, quality front row (Lo Cicero, Festuccia and Castro) and Barbieri to give Parisse and Zanni some help in the back row, are there any international quality lock forwards on the horizon? Seems to be the one missing piece in an Italian team with genuine try scorers in Masi, Benvenuti and Canale.
Thanks all.

well, our front row has always been good, actually better, the good news is our backplay seems to be improved a lot. We discovered a good, good lock on the way, Minto has been immense vs Oz and NZ's. Our main trouble is indeed the lack of a quality FH who is at the same time a reliable kicker(Orquera doesn't count, in November he simply played the matches of the life, he doesn't belong to that level).
I hope we'll be able to repeat the same performances and above all the same attitude, I think we can have some fun this year, we do have some class in the team this year and Brunel seems he's doing a good job

[George Carlin]

5. Italy fans - now that you have a well settled, quality front row (Lo Cicero, Festuccia and Castro) and Barbieri to give Parisse and Zanni some help in the back row, are there any international quality lock forwards on the horizon? Seems to be the one missing piece in an Italian team with genuine try scorers in Masi, Benvenuti and Canale.
Thanks all.

well, our front row has always been good, actually better, the good news is our backplay seems to be improved a lot. We discovered a good, good lock on the way, Minto has been immense vs Oz and NZ's. Our main trouble is indeed the lack of a quality FH who is at the same time a reliable kicker(Orquera doesn't count, in November he simply played the matches of the life, he doesn't belong to that level).
I hope we'll be able to repeat the same performances and above all the same attitude, I think we can have some fun this year, we do have some class in the team this year and Brunel seems he's doing a good job

Welcome Aqualung and many thanks for responding.

[Cyril]

A question for English fans - how do you feel about picking players who quailfy via residency rules?
Are you not massively bothered, do you think it has devalued the England jersey or as long as you win, you aren't too bothered whether they are black or white, tall or short, thin or fat, ugly or very ugly etc

Eh? No, I'm not bothered what skin colour they have, nor am I concerned about their height, build or level of attractiveness. Not sure what any of that has to do with residency rules.

[lostinwales]

A question for English fans - how do you feel about picking players who quailfy via residency rules?
Are you not massively bothered, do you think it has devalued the England jersey or as long as you win, you aren't too bothered whether they are black or white, tall or short, thin or fat, ugly or very ugly etc

Residency rules are the same for everyone - I dont have a problem with that at all. I do want to see the best rugby players making the most of their talent whoever they play for and sometimes residency rules can help that process. I do have more of an issue with areas where the playing field is not even - and thats with U21 counting as committing yourself in one country and not in another. I don't mind either way, I would just like things to be consistant

[Luckless Pedestrian]

5. Italy fans - now that you have a well settled, quality front row (Lo Cicero, Festuccia and Castro) and Barbieri to give Parisse and Zanni some help in the back row, are there any international quality lock forwards on the horizon? Seems to be the one missing piece in an Italian team with genuine try scorers in Masi, Benvenuti and Canale.
Thanks all.

well, our front row has always been good, actually better, the good news is our backplay seems to be improved a lot. We discovered a good, good lock on the way, Minto has been immense vs Oz and NZ's. Our main trouble is indeed the lack of a quality FH who is at the same time a reliable kicker(Orquera doesn't count, in November he simply played the matches of the life, he doesn't belong to that level).
I hope we'll be able to repeat the same performances and above all the same attitude, I think we can have some fun this year, we do have some class in the team this year and Brunel seems he's doing a good job

Welcome Aqualung and many thanks for responding.

Yes, welcome to 606v2!

[aqualung]

cheers lads, can't wait for the &N

[Effervescing Elephant]

Welcome to 606 Aqua, it's great to have an Italian perspective at last!

[neilthom7]

Questions for Ireland fans - where do you feel that the team is now after the battering by NZ (save for the second test where the team acquitted themselves brilliantly) and given recent Ulster form?

On paper, it's a very good front row (two thirds of a Lions front row in my opinion), a well balanced back row if you go for SOB at 6, Henry at 7 and Heaslip at 8 and talent all along the three quarters. How do you reconcile this with other posters on 606 not predicting great things from the Irish team in this tournament? What is the Irish press saying?

The problem is not really the players I don't believe but the coach the players especially the backs fire for Ulster and Leinster but the coach restricts them in an Ireland shirt, Sexton is rarely the same player at Ireland level we see for Leinster they pick players but never make the best of them is Sexton was taking the ball flat at the line like he does for Leinster then Trimble would be much better employed for Ireland like he is for Ulster. He also quite often ignores form, we have a lot of talent our front row looks the strongest it has in quite a while, our back row is quite possibly better balanced, we are learning to live without O'Connell and we have a number of really exciting backs. I mean we have 3 flyhalfs at this minute in time who are young and playing well who could be on the bench but because of Kidney they wont and his lapdog O'Gara will instead. Such a shame. Can't wait for a new coach however maybe he will try harder to save his job.

[BlueNote]

I am expecting Ireland to do well this 6N.

I differ from Glas a du, I think Wales are so decimated at lock that it will undermine their competitiveness. We'll be missing our first 5 choices (including Ryan Jones) against Ireland. Even if Ian Evans is fit, he will be rusty. I think we'll struggle badly against Ireland. On the other hand, if we could get a decent lock combination fit, I think we'd surprise people.

[bsando]

Welcome to 606 Aqua, it's great to have an Italian perspective at last!

Yes welcome Aqua! Great to have an Italian fan on 606v2 I actually did a thread on Italy (if you scroll down international section you may find it) I would be interested to know what you think. Be as brutal as you like if you think everything i have written is rubbish, I would just love to know more about Italian side

[bsando]

Question for Wales fans.

How confident are you on Wales's chances this 6 Nations? Did many of you a year ago feel Wales were going to win a GS in 2012 or was it a welcome surprise?

Also, do you think Sam Warburton deserves a first team spot? Or is Tiperuic more worthy? I prefer Tiperuic to be honest.

[Glas a du]

Question for Wales fans.

How confident are you on Wales's chances this 6 Nations?

Did many of you a year ago feel Wales were going to win a GS in 2012 or was it a welcome surprise?

Also, do you think Sam Warburton deserves a first team spot?

Or is Tiperuic more worthy?

I prefer Tiperuic to be honest.

That's 4!

1 Not at all
2 I thought if we could win in Dublin we had every chance
3 Yes, but others may deserve it more
4 Yes.

[theslosty]

Questions for Ireland fans - where do you feel that the team is now after the battering by NZ (save for the second test where the team acquitted themselves brilliantly) and given recent Ulster form?

On paper, it's a very good front row (two thirds of a Lions front row in my opinion), a well balanced back row if you go for SOB at 6, Henry at 7 and Heaslip at 8 and talent all along the three quarters. How do you reconcile this with other posters on 606 not predicting great things from the Irish team in this tournament? What is the Irish press saying?

The problem is not really the players I don't believe but the coach the players especially the backs fire for Ulster and Leinster but the coach restricts them in an Ireland shirt, Sexton is rarely the same player at Ireland level we see for Leinster they pick players but never make the best of them is Sexton was taking the ball flat at the line like he does for Leinster then Trimble would be much better employed for Ireland like he is for Ulster. He also quite often ignores form, we have a lot of talent our front row looks the strongest it has in quite a while, our back row is quite possibly better balanced, we are learning to live without O'Connell and we have a number of really exciting backs. I mean we have 3 flyhalfs at this minute in time who are young and playing well who could be on the bench but because of Kidney they wont and his lapdog O'Gara will instead. Such a shame. Can't wait for a new coach however maybe he will try harder to save his job.

I can't really say Heineken Cup form has any bearing on the national team, the provinces. dominated that competition for 7 years now but that intensity, precision and creativity only transcends maybe once or twice a year in the national team. It's very frustrating as arguably we have more world-class players than say that of England yet they are the better side at present.

The Irish public's expectations of the national team have been lowered since the euphoria of 2009.

The best argument for Ireland winning the 6N this year and perhaps the GS is this:

Ireland have had a strong group of players since 2004 roughly. In the O'Sullivan era, we won 3 Triple Crowns from 2004-2007 but our hoodoo against France always agonisingly prevented a win.

The 2009 GS was unexpected. We hadn't been firing for two years. In fact, apart from the first game we never really played the attacking rugby we had done in previous years.

However, that first game was France. If we could beat them, we could beat anyone...

The odd-numbered years greatly favour Ireland. In general we have a good record in Cardiff and crucially we don't have to go to Paris.
This has been proven.

In 2007, we were favourites for the GS. However, the pressure of the first game at Croker and an injury to BOD resulted in that flipping Vincent Clerc try in the last minute ended our hopes.

In 2009,well, we actually did it.

Now, hindsight is a wonderful thing, but upon reflection we were very close to a GS in 2011. If Sean Cronin had held onto that ball in the last play against France and of course if Mike Phillips' try was ruled out... who knows.

2013 rolls on...

[neilthom7]

Something else happened that helped us win that GS the coaching change, O'Sullivan had become to used in his position he was out of fresh ideas, when kidney came in he changed that now Kidney has become stale and the style of rugby he plays no longer as effective so it's time for another change, it sounds harsh but it is necessary. He's lucky if it was Ulster he was coaching D. Humphrey's has proven he would be gone already. I think that is something we have a problem with here is too much sentiment like if someone has been great for us in the past it earns them a by now and I'm one for remembering what people have done and praising them as legends but once they start to lose their effectiveness they are gone.

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