IT FEELS like only yesterday when last year's tournament was halted abruptly with two rounds of fixtures still to play.
Ireland's trip to Italy was called off due to the emergence of Covid-19 in Europe and the frightening acceleration of the spread of infection.
Well here we are, nearly a year later and we're welcoming back the Six Nations again, and Covid's still here! Who'd have thunk it, eh?
Anyway, despite the fact that the sporting landscape has completely changed over the past 12 months, this year's Six Nations has remained a part of its calendar, despite rigorous travel restrictions around Europe as we endure the third wave of coronavirus.
The championships, of course, are still fairly fresh in the mind, with the conclusion of last year's tournament coming only three months ago - due to a Covid-induced delay.
Ireland coach Andy Farrell, whose first game in charge was the opening match of 2020's tournament against Scotland, will be looking to build on something of an underwhelming first year in charge.
Third place finishes in both the Six Nations and the Autumn Nations Cup left plenty to be desired.
But fresh new year, fresh new start and all that.
So for anyone looking to catch the rugby this weekend, here's everything you need to know:
DUBLIN, IRELAND - FEBRUARY 08: Rob Herring of Ireland looks up from the front row during the 2020 Guinness Six Nations match between Ireland and Wales at Aviva Stadium on February 08, 2020 in Dublin, Dublin. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)Who are Ireland playing?
Ireland travel to Cardiff to face Wales in their opening fixture.
When is the match?
It will take place on Sunday, February 7.
The tournament itself will begin on Saturday, February 6, with Italy v France, and England v Scotland.
What time will Ireland's match start?
3pm (Irish time).
How can I watch it?
All Six Nations fixtures will be aired for free on terrestrial TV. Virgin Media will be broadcasting the games in Ireland, while in the UK the fixtures are being divvied up between BBC and ITV.
Ireland's opening match agains Wales will be shown on Virgin Media Two and BBC One, with coverage starting at 2pm.
DUBLIN, IRELAND - FEBRUARY 08: Ireland captain Jonathan Sexton (L) alongside Peter O'Mahony during the national anthems ahead of the 2020 Guinness Six Nations match between Ireland and Wales at Aviva Stadium on February 08, 2020 in Dublin, Dublin. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)Are fans allowed to attend the matches?
No. Currently, all fixtures in this year's Six Nations will be held behind closed doors, and things are unlikely to change before tournament's end.
When are Ireland's other fixtures?
Ireland v France, Dublin (3pm) - Sunday, February 14.
Italy v Ireland, Rome (2.15pm) - Saturday, February 27.
Scotland v Ireland, Edinburgh (3pm) - Sunday, March 14.
Ireland v England, Dublin (4.45pm) - Saturday, March 20.
See More: Ireland Rugby, Rugby, Six Nations, Six Nations 2021
