New Six Nations dates set

Ireland face a 20 Oct clash against England

The delayed 2001 Six Nations looks set to be decided when England face Ireland on 20 October.

Clive Woodward's side are one game from completing a Grand Slam in the competition, which has been badly disrupted because of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

  New Ireland dates

22 Sept: vs Scotland

13 Oct: vs Wales

20 Oct: vs England

However, the Irish side who stand in their way also boast a 100% record from their two games so far, with three more to come at the start of next season.

To set up a tantalising final game, Ireland will have to beat Scotland at Murrayfield on 22 September and Wales at the Millennium Stadium on 13 October.

Commercial partners BBC and Lloyds TSB were consulted prior to the dates being finalised.

"I am very pleased that in these difficult circumstances unanimity prevailed," said Six Nations committee chairman Allan Hosie.

"The committee were particularly appreciative of the Irish Rugby Football Union in agreeing to play two Six Nations matches on consecutive weekends."