The Six Nations kicks off on Saturday with England bidding to win a record-breaking third successive outright title.
From the Red Rose’s strength in reserve to Ireland’s class in attack, the competition will again showcase the depth of Northern Hemisphere talent.
Here we examine the six coaches ahead of the start of the tournament.
EDDIE JONES (ENGLAND)
TIME IN JOB: Two years
The Red Rose manager is preparing to make history by winning a third consecutive Six Nations title.
Although he has deflected the spotlight on Ireland in the build up to the competition, the Australian has undoubtedly the most complete squad at his disposal to seal another title.
Despite injuries to star men Billy Vunipola and Elliot Daly, England’s strength in depth makes them look unstoppable up front and in attack.
Jones biggest skill is his ability to motivate players – and coupled with their formidable squad – should win all five matches.
VERDICT: Winners
JOE SCHMIDT (IRELAND)
AGE: 52
TIME IN JOB: Four years
Schmidt is entering his fifth season as Ireland coach and will be hoping for more positive form ahead of next year’s World Cup.
The Kiwi is known to rely on his tried-and-trusted XV – but expect winger Jacob Stockdale to be rewarded with a starting berth on the back of some sterling performances for Ulster this term.
Schmidt’s side employ an efficient kicking game, rely heavily on their defence and have strong organisational skills.
VERDICT: 2nd
GREGOR TOWNSEND (SCOTLAND)
AGE: 44
TIME IN JOB: One year in May
It may have been 19 years since Scotland last won the competition, but under Gregor Townsend, this could be their greatest opportunity to challenge Ireland and England for the title.
The laid-back Townsend has trusted leaders in Finn Russell, Stuart Hogg and Jonn Barclay – and is likely to stick with experience over youth.
The Galashiels native is only eight months into his tenure – and has taken over a job that had the foundations laid and cracks sealed by Vern Cotter – whose contract ended (and was not renewed) in May 2017.
It’s the most exciting Scottish side in well over a decade, and with the instrumental Hogg at 15, Townsend has buckets of talent at his disposal to cause a series of upsets.
VERDICT: 3rd
WARREN GATLAND (WALES)
AGE: 54
TIME IN JOB: Ten years
Ahead of a crucial World Cup year in 2019, the Wales chief showed a move away from the famed “Gatlandball” during the autumn internationals, starting Owen Williams as a ball playing 12.
With key half-back and centre injuries the question now is whether he will stick with this new-found expansive style, or play safe, looking to truck the ball down the middle with big carriers.
While the style of play can still be crafted, one thing the Kiwi won’t have at his fingertips is strength in depth. Wales’ bench is likely to be light on experience meaning a shrewd change when things aren’t going their way will be tricky.
The master of the mind-game, Gatland has already tipped Wales for Six Nations glory – but even the most ardent of fans may find that a tad optimistic.
VERDICT: 4th
JACQUES BRUNEL (FRANCE)
AGE: 67
TIME IN JOB: One month
New France coach Jacques Brunel has said his immediate ambition is to win the Six Nations and end the negative perception of his struggling national team.
Les Bleus come into the Six Nations without a win in seven matches – including a humiliating home draw against Japan in November – which led to Guy Noves’ sacking.
With key men Morgan Parra, Wesley Fofana and Brice Dulin ruled out through injury, the French squad remains low on experience and class, with the average number of caps a paltry 10.
It may be an inexperienced squad, but if Brunel is to inspire a nation, then he needs to have a promising start against Ireland on Saturday.
Les Bleus may only seal two wins this campaign, but Brunel has the chance to experiment with young stars in Antoine Dupont, Anthony Belleau and Matthieu Jalibert.
VERDICT: 5th
CONOR O’SHEA (ITALY)
AGE: 47
TIME IN JOB: Two years in March
The Irishman is in his second season as head coach and will be looking to build on improvement from a mixed 2017 campaign.
His decision to bring in former All Blacks backs coach Wayne Smith points to his ambition.
Although the Azzurri may struggle against Ireland, England and Wales, one win will represent progress after five defeats in last year’s tournament.
They may be the weakest team in the competition, but under the tutelage of O’Shea, the Italians are starting to gain more respect on the international stage.
Injuries to Michele Campagnaro and Angelo Esposito may cut down their firepower in attack, but 34-year-old talisman captain Sergio Parisse remains the key man.
VERDICT: 6th
