Rugby up and down the country has been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Many games have been postponed and grassroots clubs are coming up a year since playing any action.

But the 21st Six Nations will be played behind closed doors, starting this weekend with Italy taking on France at the Stadio Olympico on Saturday afternoon.

North Somerset Times: England are the current holders of the Six Nations when they won last year's competition for the 26th time.England are the current holders of the Six Nations when they won last year's competition for the 26th time. (Image: Archant)

Holders England will then take on Scotland at Twickenham later that day before Wales host Ireland at the Principality Stadium on Sunday.

Ahead of the first set of games, the North Somerset Times spoke to Clevedon's club and first-team captains Brian Largenton and Will Trollope about the upcoming tournament and their excitement at being able to watch the annual competition.

Trollope shares with North Somerset readers his memories of watching the sport.

Q.What do you think about the Six Nations and what are your favourite memories?

A.I absolutely love the Six Nations! It highlights the friendly rivalry between the countries, as well as bringing fans together each year! Maybe not so much this year though.

Q.Which matches are you most looking forward to watching?

A.I think this year, for the first time in my life I'm looking forward to seeing the French play!

They really do have the most exciting team at the moment and if they can keep their form they will surely be impressive.

Q.Who do you think will win this year and why?

A.It's tricky, there have been a few injuries/losses in all the camps, so I don't think that any team is going in at 100 per cent, but I think it will come down to France or England, and mostly depends on the classic question of 'which French team is going to show up today?'

North Somerset Times: Harry Randall is yet to represent England and could have chosen to play for Wales but has decided to play for Eddie Jones' side.Harry Randall is yet to represent England and could have chosen to play for Wales but has decided to play for Eddie Jones' side. (Image: Archant)

Q.Which players are you most looking forward to seeing in action?

A.I'm looking forward to seeing the young guns coming through, the likes of Callum Sheedy and Louis Rees-Zammit for Wales and hopefully seeing Harry Randall make his debut for England.

I think we're at the start of a transition period, where the senior players are reaching the end of their legs, and it's time for the youngsters to step up and show the rugby world what they've got!

Q.How important is it for the competition to continue in the current climate?

A.I think it's definitely important for rugby for it to continue, not only is it a chance for international sides to develop, but it then creates spots in league teams that gives opportunity to up and coming players.

Rugby doesn't have the pure numbers of fans as football, so its really important that we keep people interested in the game!