Rugby Union Today: Six Nations previews

Colin Newboult

Wales' Ross Moriarty (right) tackled by Ireland's James Ryan during the Natwest Six Nations match at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin.

Another busy day in the rugby union game as we look ahead to the final round of the 2019 Six Nations where Wales go for the Grand Slam.

What’s on the site

Wales face Ireland on Saturday looking to claim their third Grand Slam under the stewardship of Warren Gatland, having previously had a perfect record in 2008 and 2012, and we have previewed the contest.

Should Gatland’s men falter, however, then that opens the door for England, who will look to regain the championship they won in 2016 and ‘17 when they take on Scotland at Twickenham.

Elsewhere in the Six Nations, it is the battle of the bottom two as Italy attempt to win their first game in the competition for four years, with struggling France the visitors to the Stadio Olimpico.

In Super Rugby, the all-New Zealand contest ended in stalemate as the Chiefs drew with the Hurricanes, while the Brumbies edged the Waratahs in the Australian derby. Check out the highlights of both those encounters here.

What’s in the news

Ireland have ordered the Principality Stadium roof to remain open when they head to Cardiff to take on Wales. The weather forecast is dire for Saturday so don’t expect too much running rugby.

Elsewhere, the Brumbies have been boosted by the re-signing of back-rower Rob Valetini, although there was concern when the flanker limped off during Friday’s game.

Finally, Exeter Chiefs have managed to keep hold of former Australian international Dave Dennis, who has signed a new two-year contract with the Devonians.

What’s on social media

Wales’ players, coaches and supporters will be hoping for more moments like this on Saturday.

What’s on TV

The 2019 Six Nations returns for its final weekend with the BBC showing the big clash of the weekend when Wales face Ireland. Italy v France begins proceedings and England v Scotland rounds off the competition, and they will be shown on ITV.

Meanwhile, Sky Sports will broadcast all the Super Rugby encounters which take place, starting with the Chiefs taking on the Hurricanes in an all-New Zealand clash, and ends with the Lions against the Rebels. The Top 14 will also be televised on the channel, with both Sunday games being shown.