Mark Rigby, Chief Executive of Lambert Smith Hampton and a former Captain of London Wasps, gives us the lowdown on the impending tournament.

"The first Six Nations Saturday of the year is fast approaching and from where I'm standing, this looks like one of the most open tournaments in years...."

The majority of tipsters are going for Ireland but I think people would be wise to remember their relocation factor this year. Lansdowne Road was something of the proverbial 'fortress' - swirling winds, boisterous support, and decades of tradition. Croke Park, while a fine stadium (the fourth largest in Europe with more than 82,000 seats), is not a 'true' home. Just as in property, if a move is managed well, it can be a great success. If not, watch out for some world class players trying to shine on a ground they don't know, in front of a crowd that's also coming to terms with the move.

While there's been plenty on the political pages about 300th anniversary of the Act of Union, I think many people have yet to twig just what spice this will add to Saturday’s England V Scotland game at Twickenham. I'm not sure where Gordon Brown will be this weekend but it will be interesting to note who he cheers for, especially after recent comments about an England World Cup bid. The impact of Brian Ashton's hand on the tiller will also be interesting to see.

France, in their World Cup year and as defending Six Nations champions, should not be written off and as Italy look like they will put up another improved team, nobody should consider a trip to Rome as any sort of holiday.

So, as we head towards the tournament, the question is: who has the 'big five performances' in them that are needed to land the title? I'm tipping England (just). Best wishes to all of the property folk who will be heading to or watching the games this weekend. I'll be in the Alps, preparing for this year's LSH Ski Challenge but will be keeping a close eye on the action!

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