Laportes side face Scotland in the opening game of the tournament a week on Saturday, then have a crucial clash against England the following weekend.

He said: I think this is the most open championship for a while because Ireland are very good. Wales are on the up and of course you have us and the English.

Ireland have been playing well for the last five years and their provinces have made good progress in the European Cup through Leinster and Munster.

They also won at Twickenham last year with a very good performance. Its never easy to play against Ireland.

Laportes Six Nations opener should see them beat last year's wooden spoonists Scotland, but Laporte is refusing to take the challenge of Matt Williams men lightly.

Playing Scotland in the first match is not at all a blessing because they should not be overlooked. We must show respect to all teams and discount no-one, he added.