The 2021 Guinness Six Nations will draw to a close when France host Scotland in their delayed round three appointment on Friday night, with Wales anxious spectators knowing that they could yet be crowned champions.
Here, the PA news agency looks at the permutations surrounding the Stade de France showdown.
Why are France playing Scotland on Friday?
An outbreak of coronavirus spread through the France camp following last month's victory over Ireland, infecting 12 players and a number of staff including head coach Fabien Galthie. It forced the postponement of the original match on February 28 and since then France have lost to England and ended Wales' Grand Slam march, placing them within sight of the Six Nations title.
What do they need to do to win?
Even for a team of France's ability, it is a tall order. Les Bleus require a bonus-point victory and a winning margin of at least 21 points to clinch their first title since 2010 and leave Wales empty handed. If they secure a bonus-point win and prevail by exactly 20 points, the title will be decided by tournament try-count between France and Wales. Anything less – or Scotland win or draw – and Wales are crowned champions.
What happens if the try counts are the same?
This is where it becomes interesting. Normally coaches will say win the game first, worry about the permutations later, but France's points target is so big that patience is not an option. They must go on the offensive from an early stage and while they certainly possess the firepower to build a big total, prioritising attack will also provide opportunities to Scotland. Overall, France have been the best team in this Six Nations with their only defeat coming late on at Twickenham.
