Six Nations: 5 stars of the future who lit up this year's tournament
Duncan Bech, PA England Rugby Correspondent
An eventful Six Nations has seen a crop of emerging talent announce their arrival on the Test stage.
Here are five players who enjoyed a breakthrough tournament...
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (21), England
𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 💥
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso straight over the try line for @EnglandRugby 😎#GuinnessM6N #SCOENG pic.twitter.com/fmnhWCPluH— Guinness Men's Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) February 24, 2024
It is an indication of Feyi-Waboso’s impact that in only three caps he was sorely missed when ruled out against France due to concussion.
A genuine X-factor player with pace and power who had Twickenham on their feet for the visit of Ireland in round four.
Joe McCarthy (22), Ireland
McCarthy’s coming of age display against France on the opening weekend went unmatched in the rest of the Six Nations, but his status as a second row enforcer was already assured.
Bristles with aggression on both sides of the ball.
Cameron Winnett (21), Wales
One of the slightest players on the international stage, but Winnett’s speed, footwork and handling have proved a handful for opponents.
Not bad for a player with just 15 professional appearances for Cardiff to his name before the tournament began.
Tommaso Menoncello (21), Italy
🏅 Today's #GuinnessM6N Player of the Match, @Federugby's Tommaso Menoncello 🙌#FRAITA pic.twitter.com/xgYSl4C1Ul
— Guinness Men's Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) February 25, 2024
Menoncello’s international appearances before this Six Nations lacked consistency, but he is now becoming the force his talent suggested was possible.
Powerful and direct, he has the physicality to make an impact in attack and defence.
Nolann Le Garrec (21), France
An outrageous 35-metre reverse pass headlined a man of the match display against Wales, which was also his first start.
Faced with the impossible task of replacing Antoine Dupont, Le Garrec has shown there may be possibilities beyond the France superstar after all.
