With 2022 around the corner, the eyes of the rugby world are slowly turning to the Six Nations 2022 tournament. It may seem like a long way to go, but Europe’s biggest rugby event is only weeks away.

When is the tournament? 

The 2022 fixture schedule for the Six Nations begins on Saturday, 5th February 2022 and runs until 19th March 2022.

Is South Africa joining the tournament next year? 

South Africa’s bid to join the Six Nations tournament has, unfortunately, encountered a setback earlier this year after it was decided not to expand the championship. However, fresh talks are ongoing regarding a new global competition that could be played from 2024.

What to expect from the Six Nations 2022 tournament 

The eagerly-awaited Six Nations fixtures have recently been announced and 1000s of rugby fans are set to pack the stadium to watch their favourite teams face off throughout five thrilling, rugby-packed weekends of fixtures.

There are five major contenders for the Six Nations crown. A glance at the current odds puts 2021 runners-up France as the current favourites, followed by England and Ireland with 2021 champions Wales, and then Scotland.

Support your favourite team 

While South Africa is not joining the tournament, it is still an exciting one to watch. If you have a favourite team, you can support them by donning the finest rugby jersey from Sportsman’s Warehouse. You can then snap a couple of fun pics and tag your team on Twitter or Instagram.

If you want to show more support, you can also include a message to your favourite team. The World Rugby Union actively encourages fans to tweet videos and messages to the teams.

You should also be following @BBCScrumV on Twitter for all the latest updates. And don’t miss @WelshDalaiLama’s legendary Six Nations Drinking Game. It’s the most fun you will have without being on the Dublin and the Aviva Stadium.

Who is playing when? 

Ireland is kicking off the tournament on 5 February against Wales, followed by Scotland against England. France and Italy will end off round one against each other on 6 February. Round two will kick off on 12 February.

Where to watch the tournament

Of course, everyone wants to be in Dublin next year to watch the tournament live. But with the current pandemic, travelling seems to be off the cards. The next best option would be to watch it at your local restaurant or bar or in the comfort of your home on either SuperSport or BBC Sport.