Round One of the 2026 Six Nations kicks off this week and on Saturday we see Italy hosting Scotland and England welcoming Wales to Twickenham. In this preview, we take a closer look at these two Saturday fixtures from a betting perspective and highlight a few potential value plays.
Italy v Scotland – Click here to bet
Italy ended 2025 strongly, winning two of their final three matches with victories over Australia and Chile, while their only defeat in that run came against South Africa. Their Six Nations campaign saw them finish fifth after recording one win from five matches, that victory coming against Wales in Round Two.
Scotland had a more mixed end to their year, managing just one win from their final three fixtures. That victory came against Tonga, while they suffered defeats to Argentina and New Zealand. In last year’s Six Nations, they finished fourth after winning two matches, against Italy and Wales.
Head-to-Head
Scotland have held the upper hand in recent seasons, winning last year’s clash 31–19 at home and taking three of the previous four meetings. However, the last time these sides met in Italy, the hosts edged a tight contest 31–29.
Betting and Verdict
Scotland come into the match as favourites, trading at 1.34, with Italy available at 4.00 and the draw at 26.00.
Handicap: Italy +8.5
Italy are no longer the automatic wooden-spoon candidates they once were. Over the past few seasons, they have produced increasingly consistent performances and are now capable of competing with, and beating, the middle-tier nations. Their recent home wins over Australia, and a strong showing against South Africa, underline their progress.
With Italy having beaten Scotland the last time they met on home soil, there is a strong case for another upset here. I wouldn’t be surprised if they start their campaign with a statement victory.
Suggested Bet: Italy to win at 4.00
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England v Wales – Click here to bet
England enjoyed a superb 2025 campaign. After losing to Ireland in the opening round of last year’s Six Nations, they went on to win every remaining match of the year, extending their winning streak to eleven games. That run included impressive away victories over France, New Zealand, and Argentina.
Wales, by contrast, continue to struggle for form after being one of the competition’s strongest sides just a few years ago. In 2025, they played eleven matches and managed only two wins, both against Japan. They finished bottom of last year’s Six Nations after losing all five fixtures.
Head-to-Head
England have won four of the last five meetings between the sides, with Wales’ most recent victory coming in 2023. When they met in Cardiff last year, England ran out emphatic 68–14 winners.
Betting and Verdict
England are overwhelming favourites at 1.01, with Wales priced at 23.00 and the draw at 81.00.
Handicap: England -29.5
Wales’ opening match of last year’s Six Nations ended in a heavy 43–0 defeat to France, a side later beaten by England. They also suffered a crushing loss to England in the final round. On current form, it is difficult to see this being competitive.
England should dominate across the park and are well positioned to win comfortably once again.
Suggested Bet: Handicap – England -29.5 at 1.91
Note: All prices correct at time of posting but subject to change.
