England have been handed a challenging start to their 2027 Six Nations campaign, with tournament organisers scheduling a Friday night trip to Dublin to face Ireland. This marks the first time in 12 years that England will begin the championship on a Friday, setting the stage for a high-stakes opener on 5 February.
Historic Friday Night Fixture
The evening start in Dublin is a significant departure from recent traditions, recalling England's last Friday opener in 2015, when they overcame Wales in Cardiff in a tense encounter. That match is remembered for a pre-kick-off tunnel stand-off, with captain Chris Robshaw refusing to lead his team out until Wales were ready, avoiding unnecessary waiting on the field. Stuart Lancaster's side eventually triumphed 21-15, thanks to tries from Anthony Watson and Jonathan Joseph.
Super Saturday Finale Features Ireland vs France
In addition to hosting England, Ireland will also stage the final match of next year's "Super Saturday," with organisers pitting Andy Farrell's side against France in an 8.10pm kick-off. Ireland and France have dominated the Six Nations, winning the last four editions between them, and both remain in contention for this year's title alongside Scotland, with one round left to play.
England's Full 2027 Six Nations Schedule
After the Dublin opener, England will host France on Sunday 14 February, followed by a home game against Italy the next weekend. Italy recently defeated Steve Borthwick's side 23-18 in Rome, adding intrigue to this fixture. Following the competition's sole rest week, England travel to Wales on Saturday 6 March, before concluding their campaign at home to Scotland a week later. The last time England finished at home was in 2019, in a thrilling 38-38 draw with Scotland.
Other Key Fixtures in the 2027 Championship
Scotland, under Gregor Townsend, will begin their campaign against Italy, mirroring this year's opener, but will host the Azzurri at Murrayfield. Meanwhile, Wales travel to Paris to face France. On the final weekend, Italy host Wales in the first game of Super Saturday, preceding the Calcutta Cup clash and culminating with Ireland versus France to close the tournament.
This schedule promises intense rivalries and strategic battles, as teams vie for supremacy in one of rugby union's premier competitions. England's early test in Dublin could set the tone for their entire campaign, while the Super Saturday finale ensures a dramatic conclusion to the 2027 Six Nations.
