Like all big betting events, it makes sense to start with the favourites. Should we be backing 2/1 Wales, or be looking to take them on?

Last year’s winners Wales have been backed from 5/2 into 2/1, and are 6/1 for the Grand Slam. They may not have the best team on paper, but confidence will be brimming with the solid club performances of both the Ospreys and the Blues.

Ladbrokes are ducking the favourites by only offering 7/4, but I’d be looking to take them on, maybe as early as this Sunday. They are 1/2 for their away trip to Scotland, but I’d would opt for the home side on the handicap (+6) for value’s sake.

England aren’t of interest, even at 9/2. Then got trounced in the autumn internationals, but that was hardly surprising. Martin Johnson’s side haven’t had the best press, and brave selections such as Andy Goode are already being questioned before the tournament. They also have a difficult schedule, but expect them to make light work of Italy at 1/7.

In the outright winner market, I am caught up between France and Ireland – both 7/2. We’ll know more about the 2 sides after he clash in Saturday’s Croke Park fixture, but by then one of the 2 sides could be the new favourite.

French clubs have given a terrible showing in the Heineken Cup, but the international side are more than capable of pulling this off. Having been 4th in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, they have slipped down the world rankings to 7th. If they are well organised and if Lionel Beauxis is kicking well, 11/8 to beat Ireland will look lke a massive price.

French coach Marc Lièvremont is focused on the 2011 World Cup, meaning that I shall side with 7/2 IRELAND. If they win the match against France, they wil grow in confidence and give Wales a run for their money. Declan Kidney is a great tactician, who will be relying on his Munster pack and Brian O’Driscoll.

They beat Argentina 17-3 last November and are a fit team; so could be worth an in-running investment should they find themselves trailing in a match. Their recent away record is concerning, especially as they travel to both Scotland and Wales.

Italy are the 4/7 favourites for the wooden spoon.

Recommendation:

2pts @ 7/2 Ireland to Win 2009 Six Nations

Compare odds on bookies.com before having a bet on the rugby:

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