Winner of Ireland and France’s opener nailed on as Six Nations favourites

Ireland and France look set to dominate this season’s Six Nations (Brian Lawless/PA)

It is difficult to look beyond Ireland and France as the principal contenders for this season’s Guinness Six Nations title.

The tournament’s most eagerly-awaited opener for years will unfold between the main two teams on a Friday night in Marseille – and everyone else could be playing catch-up from day one.