TEST RUGBY THIS WEEKEND: Friday Saturday 21-22 Feb.

21.02.2014
France v Wales in Cardiff (6 Nations)

22.02.2014
Ireland v England at Twickenham (6 Nations)
Scotland v Italy in Rome (6 Nations)
Russia v Georgia in Tbilisi (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
Spain v Romania in Cluj (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
Portugal v Belgium in Brussels (WCQ Europe R5; ENC 1A)
Lesotho v Swaziland in Maseru (Friendly)

Briefly
The Friday night test match haS caught me out in a very busy work week. I will not be able to cover That match.

Of Saturday’s test matches three stand out and will be covered. Ireland play England at Twickenham in what will be a crucial game in this tournament. England needs to win to keep their 6 Nations aspirations alive. Ireland are undefeated.

Russia v Georgia will be interesting. These two nations were at war only a few years ago. Georgia are expected to win at home as Russia is performing well below par. Of most interest will be how the Russians absorb the fierce reaction from the Tbilisi crowd.

Of more importance will be the Portugal v Belgium clash. This is Belgium’s last opportunity to gain points and stay in ENC 1A for the 2014-16 competition. Playing at home they will be desperate to win against a Portuguese side that has been less than inspiring in their outings.

The third match, and one I’m finding difficult to find information about, is the Lesotho v Swaziland rugby test match. Neither side is going to light up the rugby world but for Lesotho this will be their first rugby test match. I feel it is important to herald in the newest rugby test nation.