Scotland – A
Scotland once again took the Calcutta Cup back up north of the border, after a third consecutive victory over England. They have started the 2023 Six Nations on fire, and look to be the dark horse contenders to take on Ireland for the title. Finn Russell has been excellent for his country, taking a shining role in Scotland’s wins over England and Wales. The Fly Half looks on track to battle Ireland’s Caelan Doris for a ‘Player of the Six Nations Award’.
Duhan van der Merwe was at his best for England, dismantling the defence and scoring two world-class tries. Kyle Steyn took up the mantle against Wales, with a second half brace that took the match out of sight. An incredibly positive start for Scotland, Gregor Townsend’s men need to keep this momentum going as they travel to Paris on Sunday 26th February.
A true unified team, with stars playing at their best throughout. Stuart Hogg’s injury may cause some slight issues, but Townsend has the depth in the squad to overcome it.
England – C
It has been a 50% start for the Steve Borthwick era, as England lost their opening Six Nations match to Scotland, yet re-found their form in the round two win over Italy. After the opening round loss, their was intense debate around England’s fly half position, as Owen Farrell and Marcus Smith struggled to connect, with the Saracen playing in the centre.
Borthwick dropped Smith to the bench for the match against Italy, and England secured the win. However, this is by no means a definitive science, as Italy did not replicate their red-hot performance against France. Confidence will be building around Pennyhill Park, as Borthwick managed to secure his first win in charge. Following this up with an away win in Cardiff would be the perfect outcome.
A narrow loss to a superb Scotland team, and beating Italy who weren’t at their best. A middle of the road start for England.