Weekly Standout Players in Autumn Nations Series Tournament
The heat is on in the Autumn Nations Series, and after an epic weekend of Tests, we've handpicked the best fifteen players of the match. Let's dive right in!
15. Tom Wright (Australia)
Tom Wright shone brighter than a shooting star among the crowd of sensational fullbacks this weekend. His breathtaking counter-attacking skills for the Brumbies against England left fans in awe. While Tom Jordan and Will Jordan put up a good fight, Wright taking the top spot.
14. Canan Moodie (South Africa)
Though still early in his Test career, Canan Moodie demonstrated impressive technical skills as a constant threat on attack with great game awareness for the Boks. Mark Tele'a also caused Ireland some headaches, earning an honorable mention.
13. Joseph Suaalii (Australia) - Player of the Week
Making his debut in the Test rugby scene, Joseph Suaalii floored us with one of the most impressive first games in history. It's one thing to impress on debut, but to achieve this in your very first game of rugby union - that's remarkable! His natural feel for the game made it seem like he'd been playing for years. It's clear Suaalii will make his mark for the Wallabies.
12. Josua Tuisova (Fiji)
Though Fiji struggled to dominate the midfield gainline last week, the return of Josua Tuisova was the key to their success against England. His tree-trunk legs powered through as a ball carrier, and he linked up brilliantly. Len Ikitau's efficiency also elevated those around him, earning an honorable mention.
11. Caleb Clarke (New Zealand)
Irish defenders were in for a tough day with Caleb Clarke and Mark Tele'a on the wings. Clarke was a physical force on offense, and his technical prowess made him even more formidable. Makazole Mapimpi continued his consistent contributions for the Springboks, while Louis Bielle-Biarrey also made an impression.
10. Caleb Muntz (Fiji)
Our minds wonder about what could have been for Fiji at the 2023 World Cup if Caleb Muntz hadn't been injured just prior. Against England, Muntz scored 19 of Fiji's 24 points in a stunning performance that fell just short of earning him Player of the Week. Marcus Smith was initially slated for this position, but Muntz's Sunday showcase took the cake. Argentina's Tomas Albornoz put in a sensational performance against Italy.
09. Antoine Dupont (France)
Genius and tenacity personified, Antoine Dupont dazzled us with his first Test action of 2024. Though he made a few errors, he remained the best scrumhalf on display this weekend. Jamison Gibson-Park mounted a fantastic performance in spite of Ireland's loss to the All Blacks.
08. Gregory Alldritt (France)
Though 2024 might have been Gregory Alldritt's most lackluster season as a Test player, he displayed near-world-class form against Japan, carrying with vigor and performing outstandingly on defense. Ardie Savea also put in a monumental performance for New Zealand in their win over Ireland.
07. Fraser McReight (Australia)
Much like in the Rugby Championship, Fraser McReight was a force to be reckoned with against England. His breakdown work was crucial in tight situations, and his work rate was exceptional. Josh van der Flier was equally impressive for Ireland.
06. Rob Valentini (Australia)
Competition was fierce in the blindside flank position this weekend, but Rob Valentini stood out as the standout performer in a rollercoaster battle. Chandler Cunningham-South made an explosive start for England, while Francois Cros impressed for France.
05. Emmanuel Meafou (France)
At over 140 kg, Emmanuel Meafou exhibited incredible mobility and ball skills. He was a beast for France against Japan. Jeremy Williams also shows promise in the Wallabies' second row.
04. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)
Eben Etzebeth might be on the older side, but he was outstanding against Scotland, carrying with reckless abandon and fiercely contesting 50-50 situations. He also led well as captain. Maro Itoje fought hard for England over the weekend.
03. Thomas du Toit (South Africa)
Joel Sclavi showcased his potential as a future replacement for Frans Malherbe, anchoring the scrum for Argentina with efficiency and scoring a try. However, Thomas du Toit kicked it up a notch, displaying his potential as a future star for South Africa.
02. Asafo Aumua (New Zealand)
Though Asafo Aumua showed an occasional lineout wobble, he excelled in nearly every other aspect. His mobility and explosiveness made him a handful for Ireland. Peato Mauvaka and Dewi Lake also turned in solid performances.
01. Angus Bell (Australia)
If there were an award for best forward of the week, Angus Bell would surely take the prize. He was a force of nature for the Wallabies, doing it all and being everywhere. Eroni Nawi also played well for Fiji, while Tamaiti Williams shone during Friday night's action.
- Kurt Moodie, a rising star in South African rugby, displayed excellent technical skills in attack, making him a constant threat during the Autumn Nations Series.
- Despite an underwhelming performance by Fiji, Kurt Muntz's stunning showing against England in the midfield was one of the highlights of the match, earning him an honorable mention.
- In the exciting world of sports, both football and rugby, Kurt Suaalii demonstrated a natural feel for the game that belied his very first game of rugby union, making him the standout player of the week.
- As captain and a stalwart on the South African rugby team, the mood of the crowd shifted when Eben Etzebeth took to the field, with his reckless abandon and leadership skills elevating the Boks' performance in tight situations.
