Manu Tuilagi – England
One of the most recognisable powerhouses to play for England, Manu Tuilagi has re-found his formidable top gear since joining Sale Sharks in 2020.
After a prolonged series of injuries kept Tuilagi on the side-lines, the Samoan-born centre is back once again in an England shirt. Expected to line up in the centre along side Owen Farrell, with Marcus Smith occupying the fly-half spot, Tuilagi has two world-class ball distributors at first and second receiver. The game plan to best utilise Manu is clear, use Smith and Farrell to send the 31-year-old crashing onto hard lines, and breaking the gain-line.
A revered opponent for 14 years in the Premiership. Tuilagi’s presence in the Leicester Tigers midfield let to many memorable clashes at Welford Road, and the 2013 Premiership title.
A player who relishes the contact zone, expectations are high for Tuilagi to avoid injuries, ahead of what could be his last appearance at a Rugby World Cup this Autumn.