Red Roses Ruthless, France Fearsome: Women’s Six Nations Round 2 Review & Round 3 Preview

Guinness Women’s Six Nations 2026 : Round 2 Review & Round 3 Preview : April 21, 2026

The 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations is hitting full stride, big crowds, big scores, and a growing sense that we’re heading for an absolute blockbuster between England and France. Two rounds in, and it already feels like a two-horse race at the top. While everyone else scrapping for the leftovers.

England and France look locked on a collision course that could decide not just this tournament. It will set the tone for women’s rugby globally in 2026. Here’s a full wrap of Round 2 and a look ahead to what’s coming this weekend.

Round 2 Results: England Run Riot, France Stay Clinical

Scotland 7–84 England : Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh

This was one of those days where history cuts both ways. A crowd of 30,498 turned up a record for a Scotland women’s home international but they were treated to a full-blown England masterclass.

After a slightly scratchy opener in Round 1, England were back to their brutal best, putting 84 points past Scotland in a fourteen-try demolition job. It was ruthless, clinical, and frankly a bit scary for the rest of the tournament.

Megan Jones grabbed a brace and was everywhere, while the Red Roses banked another bonus-point win to stay firmly on top of the Women’s Six Nations table. When England click like this, there’s just no stopping them.

Wales 7–38 France : Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff

France did exactly what was required in Cardiff. No drama, no fuss, just control.

A 38-7 win, five tries, and another bonus point keeps them right on England’s heels in the 2026 Women’s Six Nations title race. Wales showed flashes, but right now they’re a step below the top tier, and France exposed that gap with ease.

The scary part? France still look like they’ve got another gear if needed.

Ireland 57–20 Italy : Dexcom Stadium, Galway

Ireland bounced back in style after their Round 1 loss to England, putting nine tries past Italy in a proper statement performance.

At 57-20, this wasn’t just a win. It was a reminder that Ireland are no pushovers in this Guinness Women’s Six Nations. There’s real attacking intent in this side now, and they’re building nicely.

Italy, meanwhile, are still searching for their first win and it’s not getting any easier from here.

The Standings After Round 2

No surprises at the top England lead the Women’s Six Nations 2026 standings, level on wins and bonus points with France but ahead on points difference.

France are breathing right down their necks. While Ireland’s big win keeps them firmly in the mix for a top-three finish.

Scotland’s campaign took a hit after that England result. While Wales and Italy are still looking to get off the mark.

Round 3 Fixtures: Saturday, April 25

Three matches, all on Saturday and one headline clash that could shape the rest of the tournament.

England vs Wales : Ashton Gate, Bristol – 2.15pm BST (3.15pm SAST)

Prediction: England 60–5 Wales

Let’s be honest, this is damage-limitation territory for Wales.

England are chasing another Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam, and with the way they’re playing, they’re not easing up for anyone. Wales have already shipped big points in their opening two games, and this could get ugly if England get early momentum.

Expect another statement win from the Red Roses as they keep one eye on France.

Italy vs Scotland : Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, Parma – 4.30pm BST (5.30pm SAST)

Prediction: Italy 24–20 Scotland

This is where things actually get interesting.

Both sides will see this as a genuine chance to pick up a win. Scotland are better than what they showed against England (most teams are, to be fair), but Italy at home in Parma are always a tough nut.

This feels like a coin flip, but home advantage might just tip it Italy’s way in a tight one.

France vs Ireland : Stade Marcel Michelin, Clermont-Ferrand – 8.10pm BST (9.10pm SAST)

Prediction: France 36–18 Ireland

This is the game of the weekend. No question.

Ireland come in full of confidence after putting Italy away, but France at home especially in Clermont is a different beast entirely. The physicality up front and the flair out wide make them incredibly hard to live with.

Ireland will have moments, but over 80 minutes, France should have too much class. A bonus-point win here would keep the pressure squarely on England ahead of what’s shaping up to be a title decider

The Big Picture: It’s England vs France… Again

England are chasing an eighth straight Women’s Six Nations title and another Grand Slam and right now, they look like a team that knows exactly how to get it done.