Seven things for rugby fans to be excited about in 2022
The 2021 edition of the 6 Nations had an average of 5.73 tries per match. England, France and Ireland have the strongest form approaching the tournament. The last match of this year's tournament is France v England at the Stade de France at 9pm.
The atmosphere was incredible for France's triumph over the All Blacks.
There are a lot of new Super Rugby players returning to the competition. The streamlined format could benefit the tournament. Pacific Island franchises Moana Pacifika and Fijian Drua will make for interesting competition in 2022.
There will be tension-filled qualifiers in 2022. Georgia are favourites to qualify for the World Cup. Romania, Portugal and Spain are also in contention. If Chile can beat USA in a two-leg series, they will become the first debutant nation at the Rugby World cup since Russia in 2011.
The Championship season has been very competitive. Leicester Tigers have been impressive under Steve Borthwick. Ealing Trailfinders are favourites to be promoted to the Premiership in 2022. Doncaster, Jersey and Cornish Pirates are also in the running.
2021’s Team of the Year, England Women, laid down a benchmark for the upcoming World Cup in New Zealand. England became the new team to beat after beating New Zealander's team twice in November. The concern for this World cup is that England will be too dominant.
The All Blacks v Ireland tour in 2022 is the most exciting prospect. The recent Lions series has left a bad taste in people's mouths. After Ireland’s monumental triumph over New Zealand, pundits and fans have questioned whether it can be backed up on Kiwi soil.
The change in eligibility laws for test rugby was revolutionary. Allowing players to switch allegiance from one country to another could make test Rugby far more competitive. Rugby League team Tonga went to the World Cup semi-final in 2017 and is currently third in the world rankings. Rumoured that France are likely to face one of the Pacific Island nations in November.
