Underdogs and overhyped: The big questions ahead of Six Nations kick-off

Thursday night is this French squad’s date with destiny. The French public have had an underwhelming experience since the trauma of the World Cup, last year’s title notwithstanding. 

A view of the Men’s Six Nations Championship Trophy at Edinburgh Castle. Pic: Dan Sheridan/Inpho

Ireland back as underdogs 

Phew! The pressure’s off. No more having to live up to top billing. No more strutting out as world number one seeds with expectations of hitting the high notes every single time.