Start of the RBS Six Nations

The Start of the RBS Six Nations

By Keith Kent, Head Groundsman, Twickenham

We begin with a two away games so it will be March before we play a game at home. I am sure that the groundsmen at all the venues are just as excited as I am.

The Welsh are at home to Scotland this weekend and I know big Tony Horne will have the Millennium Stadium pitch in tip top condition for the visit of Scotland. I am going down to this one to see the logos painted on and then taken off again. We all share a concern at the adverse effect of pitch painting, but I am pleased to say that the two companies involved are working hard to get it right.

We then go up to Murrayfield, the home of Scotland. No doubt Heather Mackinnon will have worked her magic and again the pitch will be of the highest order. Despite all the bad weather that Scotland has had the pitch will be looking magnificent even before the mass bands of the pipes and drums get anywhere near it.

Scotland v England at any sport has a special feel to it and this year will be a bit more special as we go there as champions of the World.

Over in Ireland Majella Smyth will be ready for the Wales game having played away the first week. With hosting football and rugby games Majella does a good juggling act to maintain such a good playing surface against a lot of odds. They also get their fair share of wet weather as well.

So may I say good luck to all involved and may all of our pitches play really well.