Turbo Teddy takes try of the year prize

SO 2020 is finally in the rear-view mirror and it’s all eyes on 2021 and what that can bring but, strangely, I am convinced rugby’s annus horribilis still contained much action that we will recall fondly in roaring pubs and clubhouses in years to come.

- BRENDAN GALLAGHER

Perhaps our isolation and introspection heightened our appreciation of the precious action that was salvaged from the wreckage, but a number of tries in particular will remain seared in my memory. In that respect 2020 was a rare if quirky vintage.

Heading that list was that timeless beauty from Teddy Thomas for Racing at Quins a few weeks back; a mesmerising, gliding, swerving effort that made high-quality Quins players look like outclassed schoolboys. He was playing a different game, breathing different oxygen.

As with all sporting perfection the moment looked pre-ordained and in slow motion. Thomas has a whiff of Obolensky or Duckham about the way he dismisses the opposition and like that illustrious duo he is underutilised by his national side and arouses a certain amount of suspicion. It all looks too easy and mercurial. Where’s the effort and the grunt?

To date Thomas has won only 22 caps with a party boy reputation not helping, but at the age of 27 he might just be entering his pomp. France now boast a back division to feed his talent and you fancy that if Les Bleus are to triumph at RWC2023 they will need some of his X-factor.