Former England scrum-half and Love Of Rugby podcast presenter has picked his Six Nations team of the tournament with four former teammates making the XV.
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Leading the pack is Ireland’s Andrew Porter, anchoring the scrum at loosehead prop, alongside his compatriot Dan Sheehan at hooker and England’s stalwart Dan Cole at tighthead prop. The second row sees the inclusion of George Martin from England and Joe McCarthy from Ireland, forming a formidable partnership.
In the back row, Italy’s Michele Lamaro, Wales’ Tommy Reffell, and England’s Ben Earl bring dynamism and versatility, offering a potent combination of power and agility. Jamison Gibson-Park, the Irish scrum-half, orchestrates proceedings from the base of the scrum, while George Ford of England assumes the pivotal fly-half role, guiding the team with his tactical acumen.
The backline showcases an array of attacking threats, with Ireland’s James Lowe and Bundee Aki forming a formidable midfield partnership, complemented by the creative flair of Italy’s Juan Ignacio Brex. The back three features the electrifying pace of France’s Damien Penaud and the assured presence of Italy’s Monty Ioane, rounding off Youngs’ selection.
Youngs’ team reflects the standout performers from the Six Nations, blending established stars with emerging talents, and serving as a testament to the competitive spirit and talent showcased throughout the tournament.
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Ben Youngs’ Six Nations Team of The Tournament:
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland)
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
3. Dan Cole (England)
4. George Martin (England)
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland)
6. Michele Lamaro (Italy)
7. Tommy Reffell (Wales)
8. Ben Earl (England)
9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)
10. George Ford (England)
11. James Lowe (Ireland)
12. Bundee Aki (Ireland)
13. Juan Ignacio Brex (Italy)
14. Damien Penaud (France)
15. Monty Ioane (Italy)
“A liability” – Telegraph rank England’s five worst 2024 Six Nations players
Telegraph Sport conducted a thorough assessment of each England player’s performance during the Six Nations, with criticism aimed at several individuals.
One player was labeled a liability, while another is advised to come to terms with the idea that their peak playing days may be behind them.
5 players who underperformed:
#5. Alex Coles – 6/10
Coles is a member of the Premiership outfit Northampton Saints, a club he has been associated with since the age of 13. His journey with the Saints began when he joined their senior academy in the summer of 2017, eventually making his senior debut in November of the following year.
With versatility spanning across the second and back rows, Coles has represented his country from U16 level all the way through to U20, featuring prominently in the U20 Six Nations and the World Rugby U20 Championship.
His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the England senior Men’s squad ahead of the 2022 Autumn Nations Series, where he marked his debut in their narrow 30-29 defeat against Argentina.
They wrote: “A cumulative 15 minutes of action, but it is telling that England opted for no lock replacement in their final two matches.”
RUCK RATING: 6.25/10