"It arrives like the spring, and like the spring, it too lifts the hearts. First the snowdrops, then the daffodils, then St Brigid's Day, then Six Nations." *wipes away tear*Rejoice that January is over, the World Cup is behind us, and we're still bitching about not picking on form. We scrutinise Andy Farrell's (conservative) first selection as Irish coach, discussing the virtues of experience and "experimentation". We preview Le Crunch: Eddie Jones promises withering physicality for the French who, with their glittering youthful talent, promise a return to the days when they ruled the championship along with Les Rosbifs.Finally we talk briefly about Wales and Italy. Five of the six coaches are new but Gatland casts the longest shadow of all those departing. How will Wales cope? And should Italy just embrace La Brutta Vita?

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