The players to watch out for in the Six Nations
There is but one fairly reliable cure for the winter blues – the Six Nations!
February will bring about the 2019 editions of the tournaments which draw the almost undivided attention of the competing nations.
Reigning Grand Slam champions Ireland will try and defend their crown, with five hungry challengers ready to spoil the party.
To get ready, we’ve picked out two players from each team to keep an eye on – and three from the women’s tournament, too!
February will bring about the 2019 editions of the tournaments which draw the almost undivided attention of the competing nations.
Reigning Grand Slam champions Ireland will try and defend their crown, with five hungry challengers ready to spoil the party.
To get ready, we’ve picked out two players from each team to keep an eye on – and three from the women’s tournament, too!
Italy - Sergio Parisse
Who else? At one time perhaps the best Number 8 in world rugby, the 35-year-old’s powers may be waning, but don’t rule out his ability to change the game with a run, offload, or interception.
Scotland - Stuart Hogg
The fullback has shown himself to be a world class option at the rearguard of the Scotland lineup for a while now, and watching him remains an absolute pleasure. At the relatively young age of 26, Hogg is one of the stars of the show every winter.
Wales - Jonathan Davies
A terrifically exciting centre to watch, Jonathan Davies has the potential to destroy any team’s defences in the flash of an eye. If he beats his man, you’d better turn your head and start running, because play is about to advance a long way down the field.
England - Joe Cokanasiga
The 21-year-old winger stunned England fans in the Autumn internationals, scoring tries against both Australia and Japan. Blisteringly quick, 6 foot 4 inches tall, if you don’t know who Joe Cokanasiga is yet, you will do after the Six Nations.
Ireland - Jacob Stockdale
The 22-year-old is the pride of Ireland, currently. A lethal winger, Stockdale has scored 12 tries in his 14 appearances for the national side. Come February, the defending Grand Slam winners will be aided by their prodigy on the wing.
England Women - Sarah Hunter
The England captain is a versatile forward, and will be in line to receive her 100th England cap in this year’s tournament. She’ll pop up during the game’s biggest moments – and that is no coincidence!
France - Morgan Parra
So much of France’s success rests on the performance of the experienced scrum-half. In addition to flicking the ball out of the ruck at a moment’s notice, Parra will kick from the tee for Les Bleus.
Italy - Michele Campagnaro
The Wasps centre may be responsible for the bulk of the Italians’ offensive output this year. Aged 25, Campagnaro could announce himself as the future of the Azzurri.
Scotland - Sean Maitland
The veteran winger has been having a great season with Saracens, and could reproduce his form on the national stage. An effective option out wide, teams should know better than to give Sean Maitland space.
Wales - Alun Wyn Jones
The captain is a familiar face in the Wales side, and has received 119 caps for his country. A fierce presence in the heart of the pack, the 33-year-old could have plenty of miles on the clock yet.
France Women - Jessy Tremouliere
A marauding fullback, you’ll see Tremouliere’s name on the box score again and again. In addition to kicking for the posts, the 26-year-old will use her wheels to circumnavigate even the most well meaning of defenders. Named the 2018 World Player of the Year, Jessy Tremouliere is well worth a watch.
England - Jamie George
The hooker is breathing down the neck of captain Dylan Hartley. Is it time for the skipper to hand his spot in the starting XV over to George? Don’t be surprised if Hartley takes a more executive role this year.
Ireland - James Ryan
The other young Irish starlet, Ryan is packing the punch in amongst the forwards. Like Stockdale, the 22-year-old has taken the world of Irish rugby by storm.
France - Mathieu Bastareaud
Love him or loathe him, Bastareaud impacts games of rugby. A strong contributor to a team’s defence, don’t forget about his famously quick hands and feet when handling the ball.
Ireland Women - Claire Molloy
Claire Molloy is a force of nature. The undeniable leader of the group, she was an effective flanker in last year’s tournament. In addition, Molloy has competed for Gaelic Football’s greatest prize and is a fully qualified doctor. Not bad, eh!?
