The Wallabies will feel that they should have done better in the last World Cup and would have fancied their chances against England but were shut out.  Again consistency is the key and they would hope that over the next two or three years they could be back to being number 1.

The Pumas have always been famous for their fierce scrimmaging but their backs continue to improve and their performance in last years’ world cup shows that they can push the big boys to the limit on their day.

The English are in period of rebuilding but can still give anyone a run for their money as they showed last year when making it to the World Cup Final despite being under strength and complete underdogs going into the Tournament. 

The French never fail to surprise either positively or negatively!  Wholesale changes in team selection surely cannot help their long term cause.  Their club performances in Europe show their undoubted class but they must bring this to the international stage more consistently.

Last season proved to be one of under achieving for an Irish side brimming with talent and quality.  They need to bring their impressive club form through to the national side but if their backs click they can tear apart even the most organised of defences. 

The Italians have improved in the Six Nations virtually every year since they first joined the competition.  Each year they seem to nick a result from one of the big boys of Europe and their home form proves a challenge to all their visitors.

The Blacks have failed to deliver on the biggest stage, namely the World Cup Finals, despite going in as hot favourites for the last two times and their lofty position as IRB top rankers.  There is no doubting their class but it seems that they occasionally “freeze” when performing at the highest level.

The current world champs did not quite reach the heights in the recent Tri Nations but continue to be a world force continually vying for the number one spot.  In Brian Habana they have probably the quickest player on the planet.

The Scots still have their perennial problem of limited playing resources from which to select but their passion and determination has never been in question.  They still present a tricky fixture for any of their visitors. 

The Welsh seem to be going through a roller coaster phase in the past few years and consistency has to be their goal in the coming season.  They have a great crop of players at the moment and if they all play to the top of their ability on the same day then they could overturn anyone.