WHICH PLAYERS have set our pulses racing this season? So, so many. But for the sake of expediency, we’ve picked a dream dozen who have stamped their footprint irrepressibly on the campaign.
Some, like rocketing star Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, would surely be in everyone’s list. Others are more left-field. All have the stats – courtesy of Oval – to back up their selection in our list.
So see what you tyeahhink of our top 12. Whether you agree or not, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Email us at rugbyworldletters@futurenet.com.
Fin Smith
Northampton Saints & England
“He is absolutely in the conversation to start at ten for England in the coming years.” The words of Brian O’Driscoll after Smith destroyed Sarries in March. The 22-year-old set up three of the five tries that day and was seven from seven off the tee – his 132 points by mid-May put him in the frame for Prem top scorer.
For all the talk of whether Marcus Smith or George Ford will inherit the fly-half role for England from Owen Farrell, Fin Smith’s credentials grow by the game.
His timing of pass is sublime. He can unlock defences with a simple pause, a skill few possess. It’s why he ranks first in break assists in the Premiership.
In a sense, he’s a bit of a hybrid of Ford and Marcus Smith. What a problem for Steve Borthwick to have…
Ellie Kildunne
Harlequins & England
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