Wales written off in Six Nations opener as convincing…

Wales written off in Six Nations opener as convincing Ireland win and difficult tournament predicted

Wales are being given little chance of beating Ireland in Dublin on the opening day of the 2022 Six Nations, despite being reigning champions.

Ireland's outstanding autumn, which saw them beat the All Blacks and demolish Argentina and Japan, sees them head into this year's tournament with real momentum.

Although Wales won the competition last year, coming within seconds of a Grand Slam, they are predicted to finish fourth this time around, behind France, England and the Irish.

It comes after a disappointing summer against Argentina and a mixed autumn campaign that included wins over Australia and Fiji and defeats against South Africa and New Zealand.

As for that Dublin opener on February 5, every bookmaker in the land has Ireland as odds-on favourites, with some offering odds of 1/7. A Wales victory is priced at 9/2 in various places.

The Irish margin of victory is also expected to be convincing, with a home win by 13 points or more listed at the shortest odds of 10/11 with Paddy Power.

A huge Irish win of between 26 and 30 points is deemed to be as likely as a Wales win by one to five points, with both priced at 9/1.

Wales are no strangers to being largely counted out in the run up to a Six Nations. England and Ireland are fancied more by the bookies every year, but it is France who are actually tournament favourites this year after their stunning demolition of the All Blacks in November.

Wales follow their opener against Ireland with a home match against Scotland, a trip to Twickenham and two home matches against France and Italy to finish.

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