Six Nations organisers have announced the schedule for the 2009 championship.

The tournament will begin at Twickenham on February 7 when England host Italy.

There will be a Friday evening fixture for the first time when holders Wales visit France at the Stade de France on February 27.

The decision followed the success of Friday evening fixtures during last year's World Cup in France organisers said adding they hoped "to bring this magnificent tournament to the widest possible audiences".

The programme will conclude with a "Super Saturday" with all six teams playing on March 21.

2009 schedule (all times GMT)

Saturday, February 7

England v Italy (1500)

Ireland v France (1700)

Sunday, February 8

Scotland v Wales (1500)

Saturday, February 14

France v Scotland (1500)

Wales v England (1730)

Sunday, February 15

Italy v Ireland (1430)

Friday, February 27

France v Wales (2000)

Saturday, February 28

Scotland v Italy (1500)

Ireland v England (1730)

Saturday, March 14

Italy v Wales (1500)

Scotland v Ireland (1700)

Sunday, March 15

England v France (1500)

Saturday, March 21

Italy v France (1315)

England v Scotland (1530)

Wales v Ireland (1730)

* / Reuters