The Rugby World Cup is just around the corner – the first game kicks off in September 2023 – and although it might be a little early to place any bets, the Six Nations certainly gives a good indication of where the Northern Hemisphere teams are at.
The Six Nations runs from February to March, with England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France and Italy playing one game against each other to determine who is the best. Of course, the World Cup is composed of many more international sides across the globe, but other than South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, the Northern Hemisphere teams are the strongest contenders to lift that trophy.
How Good Of An Indicator Is The Six Nations?
The Six Nations is renowned as one of the best and most fierce tournaments in World Rugby. For this reason, it is always a strong indicator when it comes to determining how certain teams will perform in the World Cup.
With that being said, it isn’t a simple science. The last World Cup was preceded by Wales winning the Grand Slam – meaning they beat every other team in the tournament – yet it was England and South Africa who made it to the World Cup final. Similarly, Ireland won the grand slam in 2018, but by 2019 they were being knocked out by New Zealand in the quarter-finals.
When it comes to sports betting, it is always important to take into account every side and the context in which tournaments are played. The 2019 World Cup, for instance, was held in Japan. The England coach at the time was Eddie Jones, who had lived in Japan for a long period prior and knew the conditions in which they would have to play in. With that information, perhaps Wales would have been able to progress further than the semis.
What About The 2023 World Cup?
The 2023 World Cup is being held in France, which is very beneficial for Northern Hemisphere teams. As well as this, something has gone wrong with New Zealand and Australia. Both teams have been floundering slightly, whilst teams like Ireland and France have seen a lot of success over the past year. This year’s Six Nations, then, might offer a better indicator than Six Nations tournaments of old.
Ireland, France and Scotland are so far unbeaten. Ireland, specifically, are on a winning streak. They ripped apart Wales in the first round and held on to beat a technically proficient France in the second. Their captain, Johnny Sexton, may be older than other top players, but he is one of those athletes showing that age is no barrier. Other teams like England and Wales, however, are not in good shape. Both have recently changed their coaches and the new regime seems to be taking a little longer to settle in.
It is clear, then, that France and Ireland are two of the biggest contenders when it comes to the World Cup. For Boks legend Tendai Mtawarira, however, Ireland are a team “not to be afraid of”. In his opinion, South Africa can beat any Northern Hemisphere team on their day, which means – in his opinion – they are well placed to retain the Webb Ellis trophy come November 2023.
Where Should Your Bets Land?
As mentioned before, sports betting is not an exact science. It should be noted, however, that this Six Nations is showing some incredible skill and agility by teams like Ireland and France. When it comes to the most successful sports teams in the world right now, these two have to be up there with the best.
With the World Cup being held in France and other Southern Hemisphere teams floundering slightly, it is likely that it could be an even better indicator than it has ever been before. A bet on France or Ireland to win should certainly be considered. France, especially, will be playing at home, and their Six Nations home record is very clean so far. Take a look at every team. Understand the context of World Rugby at the moment. Then make the decision you think is right!
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