Arcadia England

You may have noticed over the past weeks people discussing The Six Nations. Not sure what it is? Do not fear. We are here to explain all you need to know about the competition, from who plays in it to the fixtures to look out for.

The 6 Nations Explained

The 6 Nations is a competition that takes place in February and March each year between, you guessed it, six European nations; England, France, Ireland, Italy,Scotland and Wales.  With all these countries in such close proximity, the 6 Nations Championship isn't all that is up for grabs.  The Guardian explains The Calcutta Cup, The Triple Crown, Grand Slams and Wooden Spoons.

Still feeling like you want to know more for your trip to Saracens tomorrow? Here is some ammo for any rugby chat.

1. England and Wales are the most successful teams in 6 Nations history, both winning 26 titles.
2. The 6 Nations Championship started in 1992 after Italy were added to the 5 Nations which started in 1910.
3. The highest points scorer in the competitions history is Ronan O'Gara with 551 points.
4. Italy have have the unfortunate title of the worst thrashing after being beaten by England 80-23.
5. Twickenham, the home of the England team, is the biggest stadium with a capacity of 82,000.

The Fixtures

The games are well worth watching, especially in a public place. The atmosphere will be great, especially if the home team is playing in your respective country. To help you plan, the England and Wales fixtures are listed below.  For all the teams fixtures go to the 6 Nations site.

8th February

Ireland v Wales and  Scotland v England

21st/22nd February

Wales v France and England v Ireland

9th March

Wales v England

15th March

Italy v England and Wales v Scotland

All the games will be fiercely competed for with each player putting their bodies on the line for their country. If you watch the game with people from your host country you will get a feeling of what it means. This will be seen no more when England and Scotland play this weekend for the Calcutta Cup. It is a great spectacle to not only watch the game but to see the reactions of the crowd around you.