England are poised to profit on any slip-up by title favourites France after scoring 10 tries in a record Six Nations win over a dismal Wales at the Principality Stadium.
If France fail to beat Scotland, or score fewer than four tries in a draw, in Saturday’s final match (20:00 BST) then England will lift the trophy for the first time since 2020.
The visitors’ selections gambles – bringing Tommy Freeman into midfield and picking six forwards on the bench – paid off despite injuries, as their power overwhelmed the hosts and nudged them within sight of the tournament jackpot.
Wales were left with little to cling to as a 17th successive defeat was all but assured by half-time and a thrashing confirmed by the end.
Despite the initial air of optimism injected by Matt Sherratt’s three-game spell as interim head coach, Wales finish bottom of the table again, ‘retaining’ the Wooden Spoon from last year.
Steve Borthwick’s side will watch France v Scotland at their team hotel, and return to an empty Principality Stadium for a potential trophy presentation if a win for the visitors appears to be in the offing at half-time in Paris.
