Weekly Highlight in Autumn Nations Series: Standout Players Recognized
Weekend Warriors: Autumn Nations Series' Best XV
Welcome to Bet Central, where we analyze the action-packed weekend of the Autumn Nations Series and pick our top XV players of the week. After some scintillating Test matches, let's dive in and find out who shone brightest.
15. Tom Wright (Australia)
In a pool of sparkling fullbacks, none outshone Tom Wright. His electrifying counter-attacking display against England earned him the top spot. While Jordan brothers, Tom and Will, and Willie le Roux turned heads, Wright's brilliance couldn't be ignored.
Honorable Mention: Willie le Roux (South Africa)
14. Canan Moodie (South Africa)
Although still early in his Test career, Canan Moodie showcased impressive technical skill and game awareness for the Springboks. Mark Tele'a also kept the Irish defense on their toes.
Honorable Mention: Mark Tele'a (New Zealand)
13. Joseph Suaalii (Australia) - Player of the Week
Joseph Suaalii made one of the most outstanding Test debuts in history. His natural feel for the game, as if he'd played for years, earned him the Player of the Week title. Waisea Nayacalevu performed admirably against Wales.
Honorable Mention: Waisea Nayacalevu (Fiji)
12. Josua Tuisova (Fiji)
Josua Tuisova's return helped Fiji dominate the gainline in midfield against England. His strength as a ball carrier and link-up play were key factors in their victory. Len Ikitau's efficiency elevated those around him.
Honorable Mention: Len Ikitau (Australia)
11. Caleb Clarke (New Zealand)
With Caleb Clarke and Mark Tele'a on the wings, the Irish defense was in for a tough day. Clarke's physical prowess and technical finesse made him a force to reckon with. Makazole Mapimpi and Louis Bielle-Biarrey also impressed.
Honorable Mention: Makazole Mapimpi (South Africa)
10. Caleb Muntz (Fiji)
Caleb Muntz's performance against England nearly earned him Player of the Week, scoring 19 of Fiji's 24 points. Marcus Smith initially claimed the top spot, but Muntz's Sunday exhibit stole the show. Argentina's Tomas Albornoz also put on a sensational display against Italy.
Honorable Mention: Marcus Smith (England)
9. Antoine Dupont (France)
Though Antoine Dupont made a few errors, his genius and tenacity set him apart as the best scrumhalf of the weekend. Jamison Gibson-Park delivered a remarkable performance in Ireland's loss to the All Blacks.
Honorable Mention: Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)
8. Gregory Alldritt (France)
Gregory Alldritt showed close-to-world-class form against Japan, carrying powerfully and excelling on defense. Ardie Savea also starred in New Zealand's win over Ireland.
Honorable Mention: Ardie Savea (New Zealand)
7. Fraser McReight (Australia)
Fraser McReight's work rate and critical breakdown work made him a standout against England. Josh van der Flier's impressive performance mirrored McReight's for Ireland.
Honorable Mention: Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
6. Rob Valentini (Australia)
Rob Valentini's titanic performance on the blindside flank made him the standout in a fierce battle. Chandler Cunningham-South caught the eye for England, and Francois Cros starred for France.
Honorable Mention: Francois Cros (France)
5. Emmanuel Meafou (France)
Emmanuel Meafou's mobility and ball skills for a man over 140 kg were incredible, earning him a spot in France's team. Jeremy Williams also showed promise in the Wallabies' second row.
Honorable Mention: Jeremy Williams (Australia)
4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)
Although aging, Eben Etzebeth demonstrated extraordinary ferocity, carrying with reckless abandon and battling for 50-50 situations. Maro Itoje fought hard for England throughout the series.
Honorable Mention: Maro Itoje (England)
3. Thomas du Toit (South Africa)
Thomas du Toit showcased his potential as a future replacement for Frans Malherbe, while Joel Sclavi, Argentina's tighthead prop, anchored the scrum with efficiency and scored a try.
Honorable Mention: Joel Sclavi (Argentina)
2. Asafo Aumua (New Zealand)
Asafo Aumua's mobility, explosiveness, and lineout skills made him a tough challenge for Ireland. Peato Mauvaka and Dewi Lake also delivered solid performances.
Honorable Mention: Peato Mauvaka (France)
1. Angus Bell (Australia)
If there were an award for the best forward of the week, Angus Bell would be the unanimous choice. His versatility and consistent presence earned him our top spot. Eroni Nawi performed well for Fiji, and Tamaiti Williams excelled on Friday night.
Honorable Mention: Ethan de Groot (New Zealand)
In the thrilling world of rugby during the Autumn Nations Series, football also had its moments. The electrifying counter-attacking display from Tom Wright in rugby propelled him to the top of his position, while Caleb Clarke exhibited a similar level of physical prowess and technical finesse in football.
