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Home Nations (often written as the Common Noun '''home nations''') is a term used to refer to the four Constituent Countries of the United Kingdom — England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland — collectively but as separate entities, distinct from the United Kingdom as a State . The term is also used to refer to England, Scotland, Wales and ) together. However, Ireland is generally only included when referring to sporting events, mainly Rugby Union but sometimes other sports. Its usage is rare (especially outside the UK) and somewhat controversial in some quarters, although it is more common in sporting contexts. Occasionally the term Home Countries is used. "historic rivalries between the home nations and the Commonwealth were once again centre stage with the Home Countries having great success" , British Cycling , March 2006 SPORTING EVENTS The term is often used when referring to sporting events in which each Home Nation competes separately, such as the now defunct . The term "Home Union" is used to refer to the governing bodies of the four teams. For example, within the Six Nations Championship in rugby union, the Home Nation teams play for the honour of winning the Triple Crown , send players to the British And Irish Lions and take part in hosting Grand Slam tours. Other sports which use the term "Home Nations" include , Disabled Sports , Fencing , Hockey , Golf , Mountaineering , Rowing , Rugby League , Skiing , Swimming and Tennis . The term is also used to refer to the 7 teams from the British Islands at the Commonwealth Games . SEE ALSO
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