THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT THE FUTURE'S

With Antoine Dupont restored, les Bleus are justified favourites to defend their crown

Laden with talent, the ever-improving Azzurri are closing the gap on the major powers

The experts on their nations’ chances – and the matches that could be key to success

Another Wooden Spoon beckons unless the men in red can find new strength in adversity

Rugby’s most outspoken and influential journalist