This was the only time that the Five Nations championship finished in a five-way tie.

Due to the Troubles occurring in Ireland, which had resulted in 13 civilians being killed by the British Army in Derry and in the loss of over 100 British soldiers in 1972 and the potential security risks, both Scotland and Wales had refused to play Ireland in Dublin in 1972.

Defying expectations to the contrary, England agreed to travel in 1973.

Despite a poor performance, resulting in an 18–9 loss, the crowd in the Lansdowne Road stadium gave a standing ovation to the England team.

England captain John Pullin delivered a quip at a post-match dinner - "Well we might not be any good but at least we turned up" - to great applause.