Predictions: Six Nations, Super Rugby and more

Round four of the Six Nations gets underway this weekend with Ireland, France and Wales all having home advantage.

Ireland’s clash against Scotland – arguably the game of the round – begins proceedings before France hosts England in the evening.

There is also a full round of Super Rugby, while the Scarlets take on Leinster in the rearranged PRO14 encounter and the Anglo-Welsh Cup reaches the semi-final stage.

SIX NATIONS

Ireland v Scotland

Preview: Ireland’s hopes of clinching a Grand Slam will face a stern test when they take on a highly motivated Scotland side in Dublin on Saturday.

Prediction: This should be a thrilling affair between two entertaining sides. Although both sides are on a high, home-ground advantage will prove decisive for the Irish. Ireland to win by seven points.

France v England

Preview: England will look for an immediate response to their defeat to Scotland when they face off with France at the Stade de France on Saturday.

Prediction: It promises to be another tight affair but we feel the visitors should just get the edge. England by seven points.

Wales v Italy

Preview: Having seen their title chances fade, experimentation is evidently the order of the day for Wales when they face a forlorn Italy on Sunday.

Prediction: Even accounting for the changes, which could potentially disrupt the hosts, they should have far too much for Italy. Wales by 30.

SUPER RUGBY

Hurricanes v Crusaders: Hurricanes by 2
Reds v Bulls: Reds by 5
Sharks v Sunwolves: Sharks by 25
Lions v Blues: Lions by 10
Jaguares v Waratahs: Waratahs by 8

PRO14

Scarlets v Leinster: Scarlets by 4

ANGLO-WELSH CUP

Bath v Northampton Saints: Northampton by 5
Exeter Chiefs v Newcastle Falcons: Exeter by 8