Six Nations 2018 bonus points: How does the table work? System explained
GETTY The Six Nations bonus points system is designed to encourage attacking rugby
The previous points-scoring system was relatively basic, with teams awarded two points for a win and one for a draw. But, in a 2017 trial that has now become a permanent format, Six Nations teams are now awarded four points for a win and two for a draw - with a bonus point available for scoring more than four tries in a match or losing by seven points or fewer. Unlike other formats, the Six Nations committee also included a third scoring method, the awarding of three extra points to a team that wins all five matches, thus avoiding the unlikely but otherwise possible eventuality that a Grand Slam-winning side earns fewer points than a team who loses one match but wins enough bonus points to overhaul them.
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Ireland were the first team ever to earn a bonus point in the competition, although it will have been scant consolation as they were beaten 27-22 by Scotland on the opening day of the 2017 tournament. *** Six Nations 2018 bonus points system Win - four points Loss - no points Draw - two points Scoring four or more tries - one point Losing by seven points or fewer - one point Winning a Grand Slam - three points ***