If you like your sport charged with passion and patriotism, you'll go a long way to beat the atmosphere of the Rugby 6 Nations. 

Ireland's home games are always a huge draw for travelling fans eager to experience Dublin's famed hospitality (read into that what you will). The city swarms with home and away supporters on match weekends and, not surprisingly, flights and accommodation can be at a premium. So plan ahead to avoid the scrum.

6 Nation clashes are held at the Aviva Stadium, formerly Lansdowne Road (see listing). If you can't get tickets, head to a pub showing the match and immerse yourself in an unforgettable afternoon of bonhomie and impeccable sportsmanship.  


RUGBY 6 NATIONS - a very brief guide
England met Scotland in the world's first international rugby match way back in 1871. Twelve years later, Ireland and Wales joined and the 4 Nations was created. France came onboard in 1910, and Italy made it the 6 Nations in 2000.

Each country faces the other once in a league competition in which the bottom-placed team 'wins' the wooden spoon. To win a Grand Slam, a team must beat all other five teams. If one of the four 'home' nations ie Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales beats the other three, they scoop the Triple Crown. Ireland last won the 6 Nations Champions, Triple Crown and, for the first time since 1948, the coveted Grand Slam in 2009. England are the 2011 champions.


2012 IRELAND HOME FIXTURES
Sun 5 Feb: Ireland v Wales KO 15:00
Sat 25 Feb: Ireland v Italy KO 13:30
Sat 10 March: Ireland v Scotland  KO 17:00

For more info on the teams, players and fixtures for all other countries log ontowww.rbs6nations.com.