Photo via BBC Sport

Fixtures and standings as Nations Championship returns on Friday

The Nations Championship returns this Friday with a packed weekend of action, as the northern hemisphere teams host their southern rivals in the final three rounds of the tournament. France currently top the northern standings with 12 points, securing a spot in the potential final against world champions South Africa at Allianz Stadium on November 29.

However, their path to the final could be disrupted by upcoming clashes, including a high-stakes match against South Africa on November 13 and a showdown with Argentina on November 21. Meanwhile, Scotland, one point behind France, face a challenging Saturday fixture against New Zealand—a team they have never defeated—before taking on Australia and Japan.

England and Ireland, both with 10 points, will look to strengthen their campaigns with matches against Australia, Japan, and New Zealand, while Wales and Italy aim to recover from early struggles in their home games against Japan, New Zealand, and Australia. The southern hemisphere leaders, South Africa, sit atop their standings after defeating England, Scotland, and Wales in their opening three Tests, with New Zealand close behind on points difference.

The tournament’s climax will feature a three-day play-off event at Allianz Stadium, culminating in a final between the top-ranked teams from each hemisphere.

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