Six Rising Stars Set to Shine in This Year’s Six Nations

As the anticipation builds for the upcoming Six Nations tournament, several young players are poised to make their mark. Here are six rising stars set to shine in this year’s competition.

Tommy O’Brien (Ireland)

Tommy O’Brien is ready to make his Six Nations debut in Paris this Thursday. The 23-year-old Leinster winger has already made an impact with five tries in six international caps. Known for his remarkable defensive skills and work rate, O’Brien has also clocked a swift 10.7 meters per second. His pace will be an asset as he looks to contribute to Ireland’s success.

Kalvin Gourgues (France)

France’s Kalvin Gourgues, aged 20, is one of the two backline replacements selected to face Ireland. A talented player from Toulouse, Gourgues primarily plays in the centre but has the versatility to shine as a fullback or out-half. His ability to change the game dynamics could prove crucial off the bench.

Liam McConnell (Scotland)

At just 21, Liam McConnell is an emerging talent in Scotland’s back row. Having debuted in November against the US, McConnell established himself as a critical player. His experience with the Scotland U20s and disruptive skills at breakdowns suggest he will be a significant contributor for Edinburgh and the national team.

Gaël Dréan (France)

While Gaël Dréan missed out on a starting position against Ireland, his performance in club rugby has earned him attention. The 25-year-old winger has netted 12 tries in 14 starts for Toulon this season. Although he has yet to earn a cap, Dréan’s lethal finishing ability makes him a strong candidate for future matches in the tournament.

Edwin Edogbo (Ireland)

Edwin Edogbo, a powerhouse from Munster, is considered one of the most exciting prospects in Irish rugby. At 23, he has dealt with injury challenges but remains a significant threat at the breakdown. His agility, despite his size, stems from a background in tennis, making him a versatile player to watch as the championship unfolds.

Billy Sela (England)

With injuries to key players, England’s Billy Sela is poised for a chance to assert himself in the Six Nations. The 20-year-old Bath standout has impressed with his dynamic play but has had limited minutes due to competition. Seen in both England ‘A’ matches in November, Sela could emerge as a vital player for coach Steve Borthwick before the tournament concludes.

Conclusion

This Six Nations tournament presents an excellent opportunity for these six rising stars. As the competition progresses, fans eagerly await their performances and contributions on the international stage.