Six standout players from the Six Nations to watch out for in the year 2025: Bordeaux Bullet, Mr. Universe, The Friendly Ghost, The White Wizard
The 2024 Six Nations tournament is shaping up to be an exciting spectacle, leading into the highly anticipated Women's Rugby World Cup. Several standout players are expected to make their mark, including some established stars and emerging talents.
England's Powerhouses
Sadia Kabeya, a 23-year-old back-rower, is known for her physicality and impact plays. Ellie Kildunne, the 25-year-old top try-scorer of the championship in 2024, is renowned for her pace, balance, and creativity. Sarah Bern and Maud Muir, a formidable front-row duo, are vying for the tight-head prop spot, with Bern standing out for her efficient ball carrying and Muir offering a continuous threat throughout matches.
New Zealand's Rising Stars
Jorja Miller, a 21-year-old flanker, emerged from the gold-medal winning Kiwi sevens team at Paris 2024. She is highly rated for her athleticism and intelligence, having displaced co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu at times. Braxton Sorenson-McGee, an 18-year-old outside back, has quickly made a name for herself in professional rugby, with two Super Rugby titles under her belt, and is expected to be the next breakout star.
Scotland and France's Potential Impact Players
Francesca McGhie, Pauline Bourdon-Sansus, and Kelly Arbey have also been highlighted for their potential impact in the upcoming competitions. These players represent a mix of established stars and emerging talents expected to shape the dynamic of the 2024 Six Nations and the subsequent 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup.
Other Notable Players
The English rugby team will be watching out for Chandler Cunningham-South, known for his physical play. Scotland's Darcy Graham, second only to Duhan van der Merwe as Scotland's all-time top try-scorer, has 17 tries in his past 11 Tests. Andrew Porter, the heavily inked prop for Ireland, has a background of losing his mother at a young age and struggling with an eating disorder. He has since recovered and is known for his strength and resilience on the field.
The Six Nations Tournament
The Six Nations tournament is taking place this year, and it is a Lions year. Ireland's head coach, Andy Farrell, is on Lions duty, leaving his deputy, Simon Easterby, to manage Irish expectations. With 59 caps in a struggling Wales side, Tomos Williams' elusive running, varied kicking game, and growing leadership skills will be vital for head coach Warren Gatland.
Key Players to Watch
Louis Bielle-Biarrey is a rising star for the French rugby team, known for his speed and agility. France has the world's best player, Antoine Dupont, returning for the Six Nations. Tommaso Menoncello, an Italian centre, was the first Italian to win the Six Nations player of the tournament since Andrea Masi in 2011. Romain Ntamack and Uini Atonio are key players for France in the Six Nations.
Dark Horses and Battles
Scotland is considered a dark horse in the Six Nations, with Finn Russell, Duhan van der Merwe, and Huw Jones as key players. The battle for the wooden spoon in the Six Nations is expected to be between Wales and Italy.
Transition and Leadership
The English rugby team is in a period of transition, with a new captain, Maro Itoje. Tadhg Furlong, a fellow prop for Ireland, considers Andrew Porter a "hell of a player." Alex Mitchell and Marcus Smith are expected to play for England in the Six Nations.
A Look Back
Tomos Williams, born and raised in the Rhondda valley town of Treorchy, spent his career with Cardiff before moving to the West Country. Darcy Graham, a player from Scotland, is a throw-back to a bygone era and is known for his speed, agility, and ability to ghost past defenders.
These players, along with many others, will undoubtedly make the 2024 Six Nations tournament an unforgettable event, setting the stage for the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup.
- In addition to excelling in rural life, Sadia Kabeya and Ellie Kildunne also showcase their skills in football during their free time, often playing in local European leagues.
- While watching NBA games during his downtime, championship-winning flanker Jorja Miller from New Zealand drew inspiration for her athletic and intelligent approach to sports.
- Apart from engaging in basketball matches, Sarah Bern and Maud Muir, prominent players in rural France, have also demonstrated impressive performance in basketball tournaments, showcasing their flexibility and teamwork skills.
