Round Three of the Guinness Men's Six Nations promises high drama and pivotal fantasy decisions as momentum begins to shape the championship. With rivalries reignited and team selections evolving, this weekend offers opportunity for savvy fantasy managers to gain a decisive edge.
Saturday, 14:10 GMT – Allianz Stadium
Few fixtures carry the weight of England versus Ireland. Their memorable clash two years ago denied Ireland a Grand Slam at the death, and both sides enter this encounter seeking renewed authority.
England are aiming to respond after a heavy defeat to Scotland in Edinburgh. Head coach Steve Borthwick has made significant changes, recalling Ollie Lawrence and Tom Curry to the starting XV, while Henry Pollock earns his first Test start. Marcus Smith, now positioned on the bench, presents strong value as a potential Supersub option given his proven ability to influence tight contests.
Ireland, meanwhile, were tested sternly by Italy before securing victory through a composed second-half performance. Jack Crowley’s assured display has earned him a starting role alongside Jamison Gibson-Park, restoring a half-back partnership capable of controlling tempo. The return of former World Player of the Year Josh van der Flier adds defensive steel, particularly against England’s dynamic back row.
Key Battles
Ollie Chessum v James Ryan: Both second rows are lineout leaders and defensive anchors. Ryan’s relentless edge contrasts with Chessum’s consistency and work rate.
Henry Pollock v Jack Conan: Two impact forwards now entrusted from the start. Their physicality could define the breakdown battle.
Ollie Lawrence v Garry Ringrose: Lawrence continues his return from injury, while Ringrose remains a central figure in Ireland’s midfield structure.
Saturday, 16:40 GMT – Principality Stadium
Wales showed flashes of promise despite a heavy defeat to France last weekend. A home fixture presents an opportunity for resurgence. Gabriel Hamer-Webb is set for his Test debut, offering pace and finishing ability that could reward fantasy investors. Sam Costelow’s inclusion strengthens a Scarlets-influenced midfield combination, while Taine Plumtree and Ben Carter reinforce the pack.
Scotland arrive buoyed by an impressive Calcutta Cup triumph but must cope without key figures Jamie Ritchie, Jack Dempsey, and Jamie Dobie for the remainder of the Championship. The return of Blair Kinghorn and Duhan van der Merwe to the back three significantly enhances Scotland’s attacking threat.
Key Battles
Tomos Williams v Ben White: Both scrum-halves combine defensive output with tactical kicking precision.
Alex Mann v Rory Darge: Darge’s breakdown dominance meets Mann’s tireless tackling.
Eddie James v Huw Jones: Jones’ attacking spark contrasts with James’ defensive reliability.
Sunday, 15:10 GMT – Stade Pierre Mauroy
France remain the only side with Grand Slam aspirations and boast enviable squad depth. Fabien Brau-Boirie retains his place after an assured debut, while Pierre-Louis Barassi strengthens midfield options. Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou start in the second row, with Charles Ollivon and Mickaël Guillard poised to provide impact from the bench.
Italy, however, arrive with confidence. They pushed Ireland to the limit and welcome back Ange Capuozzo at fullback, adding attacking creativity. Manuel Zuliani and Tommaso Menoncello have been standout performers, contributing heavily in defence and open play.
Key Battles
Thibaud Flament v Niccolò Cannone: A clash of athleticism and defensive intensity.
Oscar Jegou v Manuel Zuliani: Both flankers have delivered high tackle counts and strong carries.
Paolo Garbisi v Matthieu Jalibert: Tactical control and goal-kicking precision will be decisive.
Fantasy Recommendations
Back Three: Thomas Ramos, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Tommy Freeman, Duhan van der Merwe
Centres: Tommaso Menoncello, Fabien Brau-Boirie, Ollie Lawrence
Fly-Half: Matthieu Jalibert, Paolo Garbisi
Scrum-Half: Antoine Dupont, Ben White
Back Row: Ben Earl, Rory Darge, Manuel Zuliani
Second Row: Maro Itoje, Thibaud Flament
Front Row: Dan Sheehan, Ellis Genge
Captain Options: Thomas Ramos, Matthieu Jalibert, Henry Pollock
Supersub Picks: Marcus Smith, Jack Conan, Mickaël Guillard
With selection strategies tightening and competition intensifying, Round Three presents a defining moment in both the championship and fantasy standings. Strategic captaincy and bench impact choices could prove decisive in separating contenders from the chasing pack.
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