The final countdown

SIX NATIONS: FRANCE IN THE POUND SEATS AS IRELAND, ENGLAND LOOMS

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France head into Saturday's final round of the Six Nations with the luxury of knowing the destiny of the title is in their own hands.

Les Bleus' dominant 42-27 defeat of double-defending champions Ireland in Dublin last weekend took them top of the table, a point clear of second-placed England.

And with France's game at home to Scotland the third and last of the tournament's concluding "Super Saturday", Fabien Galthie's men will know exactly what they need to do.

Regardless of other results, a bonus-point win over Scotland would guarantee France a first Six Nations title in three years.

It would take them to 21 points, with 20 points the most England can manage if they beat Wales heavily in Cardiff.

The French also have a vastly superior points difference - plus-106 to England's plus-20, meaning that barring an unlikely sequence of events they would win the tournament even if they finish level with England on 20 points.