The 6 nations 2011 in retrospect

The six nations 2011 has ended. So what have we learnt; originally I tweeted that the southern hemisphere had nothing to fear. I think I may have been too hasty. Country by country I think the six nations has been an excellent build up to the world cup.

Italy

A six nations championship for Italy normally means one gutsy performance against a celtic nation, followed by a destruction by England and France. This time out the Italian's beat the French. This step should not be under-estimated. It shows progression, the most interesting and important thing about the Italian progression is that the back line has improved. Always competent in the forwards the improvement in the backs has meant Italy have made the step needed to make them genuine contenders and a danger for any of the world cup contenders.

Scotland

A bit of mixed bag for the Scots. If we look back to Autumn Scotland had improved beating a southern hemisphere side. February and March have not been kind, the real issue with Scottish rugby is resources. Lack of players means that Scottish rugby will always struggle. Andy Robinson has moulded his forwards into a tough set of players who never give much away. Tries were Scotland's problem and without a cutting edge Scotland will always struggle.

Wales

Wales are a side potentially blessed with creative flair. However; it seems to be stifled. Wales historically are a side that love to play ball in hand. It seems everything is not good in the principality. Wales have a coaching team that have fallen out with each other. The bigger problem maybe that Warren Gatland is stifling creativity. James Hook is played at fly half but looks scared to play his natural game. Blaming Gatland may seem harsh however he has form in doing this too players witness the Ireland side he coached.

Ireland

Ireland are an enigma. They struggled all the way through autumn looking shabby and dis-organised. This did not improve throughout the six nations, until the final match against England. Ireland walloped England, possibly this was to be expected. Ireland are a good side with world class players O'Driscoll and O'Connell among Ireland's greatest ever. I think the lack of form early in the season and the return to form now show that Ireland could be a world cup dark horse.

France

France were once again a reflection of the coaching strategy. Livremont goes through players too quickly. Beaten by Italy and England. Lucky against Ireland and Scotland. Blessed with potentially exciting players which France will turn up in New Zealand who knows?

England

England deserved this six nations championship. They were the side who were most consistent. Martin Johnson is proving himself as manager. They are a young side with great potential the forwards are developing into a tremendous unit. The backs are starting to function and look dangerous. Any side that can bring Jonny Wilkinson off the bench is always going to be a threat.

World Cup Prospects

The southern hemisphere will always benefit from home advantage in the next world cup. The fact it is in New Zealand should benefit the all blacks. However; pressure maybe the home sides downfall especially with the emotional pressure post Christchurch earthquake. France and England will always be a threat, Ireland maybe dark horses especially as this will be the last hurrah of a great Irish side. Wales have issues to sort out behind closed doors let them run and they could beat anybody. Scotland and Italy could cause upsets if taken too lightly. This world cup could be a fascinating tournament.