97. Marcos Kremer – Argentina & Jaguares
Position: Lock/Flanker Age: 20
It’s not hard to see why Argentina fans love Kremer. Still aged just 20, the 1.96m, 115kg lock has the frame to impose himself against any opposition, even at Test level. He won his first three caps for the pumas off the bench during last year’s Rugby Championship and has since taken his total to 11 caps, scoring one try.
Highlight: Scoring his first international try during the Pumas 31-15 win against Italy
96. Stuart McInally – Scotland & Edinburgh
Position: Hooker Age: 27
McInally has found himself back on the international scene and in the later stages of 2017, the Scottish hooker was as big an asset to Gregor Townsend and Scotland as Finn Russell or Stuart Hogg. The 27-year-old, who revealed he considered retirement in 2016, has come from somewhat nowhere to be number one choice hooker, providing stable lineout throwing, a strong scrummage and devastating ball carrying. He’s also been very consistent for Edinburgh in the Guinness Pro 14 in the year that he stepped up from promising talent to top-level star.
Highlight: An imperious showing against Samoa on his first start for Scotland at Murrayfield, scoring two tries in their 44-38 win.
95. Chris Robshaw – England & Harlequins
Position: Flanker Age: 31
No frills – when are there any with Chris Robshaw? – but typical industry, and lots of it. A wholehearted and committed player, the back-rower has been consistent without being outstanding for club and country in 2017. Helping England to a second consecutive Six Nations and a 2-0 summer tour triumph against Argentina, Robshaw continues to be a stalwart under Eddie Jones and will likely play a crucial role for his country once again in 2018.
Highlight: Probably playing a starring role as England overcame Australia for a fifth straight win against the Wallabies.
94. Jacob Stockdale – Ireland & Ulster
Position: Centre/Wing/Fullback Age: 21
With quick feet and a spectacular turn of pace, the 21-year-old has become the new showman at the Kingspan. His highlight reel features two great tries in a man of the match performance against Argentina during the Autumn Internationals as well as numerous stunning scores in Ulster colours.