THE LAST WORD

THIS Six Nations has served to muddy the waters ahead of the world Cup. Not so long ago, Ireland were being touted as favourites to seize the webb ellis Cup, but they are having a poor campaign.

Joe Schmidt’s Midas reputation has been dented. england were magnificent in Dublin but not streetwise enough in Cardiff. wales were criticised for their first two performances, before earning eulogies for ambushing their neighbours.

Injury-hit Scotland have been dire, France have been erratic and Italy hopeless. Again. It has not been the classic championship widely anticipated. It has been enthralling in large part, but not of the highest calibre.

By the time of the world Cup, the balance of power may have shifted south again.