Predictions: Six Nations, Super Rugby and more

The final round of the 2018 Six Nations gets underway when Italy take on Scotland at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday.

Ireland and England then follow in the weekend’s crucial clash before Wales and France complete proceedings at the Principality Stadium.

There is also plenty of action elsewhere, with round five of Super Rugby and a couple of rearranged PRO14 encounters. In the Anglo-Welsh Cup final, Bath and Exeter Chiefs go head-to-head at Gloucester’s Kingsholm stadium on Sunday.

SIX NATIONS

Italy v Scotland

Preview: Italy will be looking for their first win of Six Nations 2018 when they welcome Scotland to the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Super Saturday.

Prediction: Unfortunately, we don’t see the Italians breaking their losing streak here. Scotland by 15.

England v Ireland

Preview: It’s been a week to forget for Eddie Jones and England and if Ireland win on Saturday the knives will sharpen after a dismal Six Nations.

Prediction: Yes they have their backs to the wall and should launch a response but England don’t inspire confidence right now. Ireland by 5.

Wales v France

Preview: This match may be inconsequential in terms of the Six Nations title but the result of this encounter is nevertheless hugely important for both sides.

Prediction: Despite the result against England, France do not look good enough to win in Cardiff. Warren Gatland’s men have played pretty well in this tournament so we expect them to maintain those performance levels. Wales by 10.

SUPER RUGBY

Highlanders v Crusaders: Highlanders by 5
Brumbies v Sharks: Sharks by 6
Stormers v Blues: Blues by 7
Lions v Sunwolves: Lions by 35
Jaguares v Reds: Jaguares by 9
Waratahs v Rebels: Rebels by 7

PRO14

Cardiff Blues v Benetton: Cardiff by 10
Edinburgh v Munster: Edinburgh by 4

ANGLO-WELSH CUP FINAL

Bath v Exeter Chiefs: Bath by 6