Bonus points in Six Nations?

London - The northern hemisphere rugby championship, the Six Nations, is to consider falling into line with other tournaments and introduce bonus points, 'The Observer' newspaper reported on Sunday.

According to the report a consultation report has been drawn up for the six countries to discuss whether to bring in the bonus points system which sees sides earn points for scoring four tries or losing by a margin of seven points or less.

All the British Isles' major club tournaments as well as the European Cup and Challenge competitions award bonus points, but the Six Nations has consistently refused to do so, declaring that the history and success of the tournament meant change was not necessary.

The report says that foremost among the countries wanting a full debate on the matter is England.

The present points system sees sides get two for a win and one for a draw while sides on the same number of points are separated by points difference - that latter measure was only brought in after the sport turned professional.

A member of the RFU told the newspaper it was high time the matter was discussed and that sponsors especially were keen to have the bonus system introduced.

"We have resisted the change for the past 10 years, but there is pressure to join the mainstream, not least from commercial partners, because it would potentially increase permutations in the table at the end of the season," he said.

"But the bottom line is that it is the system that people have become used to."