The Six Nations (Rugby Union) tournament, contested by the four nations that make up the British Isles with the addition of France and more latterly of Italy is one of the most fiercely contested in the entire world of sport. These matches featuring England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Italy and France are held over weekends in the first quarter of each year, with the upcoming 2017 tournament commencing on 4th February and finishing on 18th March.