The loudest stadium in the Six Nations has just got louder after Wales was allowed to close the roof of Principality Stadium for the next two years.

Wales will play all their international fixtures at the Principality Stadium with the roof closed for the next two years after a change of Six Nations protocol.

Max Boyce used to say God preferred the Principality Stadium to be left open so “he can watch his favourites play”. But then Warren Gatland arrived and said “to hell with that”.

Hooker Jamie George will miss England's Six Nations opener against Ireland while scrum-half Alex Mitchell is a doubt with a knee problem.

Jamie George, replaced as England captain by Maro Itoje last week, has been ruled out of their Six Nations opener against Ireland, with scrumhalf Alex Mitchell also a doubt after the squad was hit by a raft of injuries.

Antoine Dupont will make a much-awaited return to the Six Nations after a one-year hiatus that cemented his status as one of France's top athletes, hoping Les Bleus can win the tournament on the back of a perfect autumn series.

Antoine Dupont will make a return to the Six Nations after a one-year hiatus that confirmed him as one of France's top athletes.

Antoine Dupont will make a much-awaited return to the Six Nations after a one-year hiatus that cemented his status as one of France's top athletes.