The fortnight since Round 2 of the Guinness Six Nations has been a kind one, meteorologically speaking, with spring well and truly sprung and all set to bask Round 3’s fixtures in sunlight.
Paris, Cardiff and Rome play host to a trio of mouth-watering fixtures, with France hosting Scotland, England travelling to Wales and Italy set to welcome Ireland as the Championship passes the halfway mark.
Here’s a closer look at the glorious conditions forecast for all three fixtures, so be sure to dress accordingly if you’re heading out to the rugby.
France v Scotland
Kick-off: 2:15, Saturday 23 February
Stade de France, Paris
After two rounds of rain, France can look forward to some sunshine when Scotland come to town to kick off the weekend.
The early afternoon start promises blue skies, unadulterated sun and highs of 14 degrees Celsius, with only mild winds setting up perfect conditions for both players and spectators.
In fact, you’d be wiser to pack a pair of sunglasses than an umbrella for the t-shirt weather of Saint-Denis.
Wales v England
Kick-off: 4:45, Saturday 23 February
Principality Stadium
The Saturday evening offering of Round 3 rugby is likewise blessed with a fine forecast – all the better to enjoy the open roof at the Principality Stadium.
While not as warm or as sunny as the afternoon’s earlier kick-off, those in attendance at the Principality can expect sunny intervals with winds of up to 11mph, no chance of rain and a high of 11 degrees Celsius.
With the game scheduled for a 4:45 start, the sun should set on the stadium come the start of the second half, with temperatures remaining mild until well after it’s conclusion.
Italy v Ireland
Kick-off: 3pm, Sunday 24 February
Stadio Olimpico
The Italian faithful are no strangers to watching Guinness Six Nations rugby in the sun and this weekend should be no different when reigning Grand Slam champions Ireland roll up to Rome.
Temperatures are set for a relatively stiff 10 degrees Celsius on Sunday afternoon, but a cloudless sky should leave the sun unobscured.
Moderate winds of up to 11mph will be something to bear in mind when lofting kicks high into the Italian sky, but again, it looks as though this will be a contest unsullied by adverse weather.
