Week 1 Pick 1

Wales v England

There are not many games in the 6 Nations that can rival this one for intensity and desire to win. Wales naturally hate the English and always up their game for their arrival in Cardiff. While England know this is the pivotal game in their campaign. Win this and they have three home matches in a row and a possible tilt at the Slam.

Wales haven't won a game in their last seven but 6 of those came against the Southern Hempishere heavyweights including three losses to the mighty Blacks. England on the other hand seem to be turning the screw and rekindling some form for the first time in years. However, the fact remains that despite beating Australia home and away this English team is largey new to international rugby.

Wales have already got a lot of injuries, the most worrying of which is the loss of two front rowers. England are without some of their big names as well, in particular Lewis Moody.

Wales haven't lost at home to England in 7 years. England won this fixture in London last year but Wales shipped most of their points against when down to 14 men. A quick scan through Wales' results in the 6 Nations will show they rarely get blown out. Wales at home, in front of a sea of angry Welsh men, at night - it will be rowdy, intense and a great game.

I'm taking Wales and the points: +4 @ 2.0 on Bet365 for 3 units. Don't bet the house on this one or any game in the opening weekend but hopefully Wales keep 15 on the pitch and lay down a marker for this tournament and the Autumn down under.