Criticism of fixture clashes as final Six Nations schedule confirmed

Ireland and Italy will kick-off the remaining fixtures in this season's Six Nations championship after dates and kick-off times were finally confirmed. However, organisers have been criticised for placing matches too close together, forcing armchair fans to choose between games.

Italy's trip to Donnybrook will start at 1pm on Sunday 25 October, with Scotland entertaining France at Scotstoun in Glasgow at 2.05pm the same day.

All six sides will be in action on Sunday 1 November when France welcome Ireland and Wales take on Scotland (although a venue has yet to be announced for that game) before England have the chance to clinch the Grand Slam when they play Italy in Parma. The second half of the Wales-Scotland match will be directly up against the first half of England against Italy.

The one remaining fixture, between Italy and Scotland also in Parma, will be played on Sunday 6 December. There is a general sense of relief matches can go ahead in the current Covid-19 conditions. 

"Despite the ongoing challenges presented by Covid-19, we have been at all times absolutely determined to conclude this year's Six Nations Women's Championship," said Six Nations chief executive Ben Morel.

"While we will remain vigilant in the current fast-changing environment, we are nonetheless delighted to announce this schedule."