| Rugby Six Nations News: |
| France emerged superior to the World Champions in a close-fought struggle for the 6 Nations Championship in Paris
last year. Follow the 2005 competition here. The SIX NATIONS is Europe's premier Rugby Union tournament, and is competed in by England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales. |
| More Rugby Six Nations News: |
| In 1871, England and Scotland played the first rugby
union international. Wales and Ireland joined battle in the 1880s, and the Home International Championships began. England and Scotland were the most successful teams in the early days, but by the mid-1890s the Welsh had developed an impressive side and a new system that would alter the face of the game. This "four three-quarter" system came into its own in 1893 when Wales became champions for the first time, winning rugby's "invisible trophy", the Triple Crown - beating all three other home nations. |