RBS 6 Nations 2010: Team Profiles

Ireland have a large array of impressive qualities but with England looking much improved, France bringing a huge X-Factor and Wales looking to refire their intensity through the tight-five, the task this year is even tougher.

Brendan Cole profiles the contenders in this year's RBS 6 Nations.

Ireland: Getting it right in the scrum and at half-back are key to bringing Ireland's vast array of strengths to bear. Read more >>>

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England: 'Probably the side with the most improvement in them and could become serious contenders.' Read more >>>

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France: 'There has been little serious squad development during Marc Lievremont's time at the helm.' Read more >>>

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Italy: 'Could the Azzurri be looking at a second wooden spoon in a row?' Read more >>>

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Scotland: 'This is a team that will defend incredibly well and be very difficult to play against. Watch out France on day one.' Read more >>>

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Wales: 'Will look to produce a winning platform, but teams find the Welsh fire easier to cope with these days.' Read more >>>