How England can still win the Six Nations

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Those results have left them fourth in the table, level on points with Italy, effectively putting them out of the title race. There is still a very faint glimmer of hope, however, as a very specific set of results elsewhere could theoretically keep them in contention for the championship.

England currently have five points, so the most they can reach from their final two matches is 15. Because Scotland and France meet this weekend — with France already on 15 points and Scotland on 11 — a French win or draw would move them beyond England’s reach. Even if Les Bleus lose but collect a losing bonus point, they would still be out of sight.

However, since France are playing Scotland, there is one scenario that keeps England in contention. If Scotland win without a bonus point, they would move to 15 points and remain within reach. For that to matter, England would also need to beat Italy with a bonus point in Rome.

Therefore, the only way England can enter the final round still able to win the Six Nations is if they claim a bonus-point victory over Italy and Scotland defeat France with no bonus points for either side. Even that scenario would require a large points swing from Steve Borthwick's side.

Even then, other results must fall their way. Scotland face Ireland in Dublin in the final round, meaning Wales would also need to take points off Ireland tonight; otherwise, one of those teams could move beyond England’s reach when they meet.

England head to France in the final round, and any hope of winning the championship relies on results going their way beforehand, but also a bonus point win in Paris with no bonus points for Les Bleus, which is unlikely in itself.

No team has ever won the Six Nations after losing two matches, and unless a very specific sequence of results goes in England’s favour, that record looks likely to remain intact.