Paris – England and France will face off in the opening match of the 2014 Six Nations championship, organisers revealed on Tuesday.
While France, recipients of the 2013 Six Nations wooden spoon, host England on February 1, champions Wales will get their bid for a third successive title off the ground against Italy in Cardiff.
Ireland host Scotland in Dublin to complete the opening batch of 2014 games.
As in 2013, the final round of matches will take place on the same day with staggered kick-offs. England visit Italy, Wales host Scotland, and France welcome Ireland to Paris.
The 2015 tournament opens with an appetising Friday-night game between Wales and England in Cardiff, with Italy hosting Ireland and France taking on Scotland the following day. – Sapa-AFP