Five players who flopped during the Nations Championship

Whether through poor form, injuries or simply failing to meet expectations, these five players endured disappointing campaigns and will be hoping for a much stronger finish to the tournament later this year.

Ireland expected one of their senior forwards to lead from the front, but James Ryan struggled to reach his usual high standards.

The second row looked off the pace at times, his lineout influence wasn't as dominant as supporters have come to expect and he was unable to inspire Ireland when they came under pressure against the very best opposition. For such an experienced international, it was an underwhelming tournament.

Verdict: Ryan remains one of Ireland's key players, but he'll be eager to rediscover his best form before the autumn fixtures.

Louis Rees-Zammit came into the Nations Championship as Wales' biggest attacking weapon, but he never managed to stamp his authority on the tournament.

He struggled to make an impact against Fiji, couldn't inspire Wales during the defeat to Argentina and was largely anonymous as the Springboks completed a comprehensive victory. While Wales' attack failed to fire throughout the campaign, their marquee winger was expected to provide moments of magic when they needed them most.

Rees-Zammit finished the opening stage without the tries, line breaks or game-changing moments that have defined his career. For one of the most exciting players in world rugby, it was a frustratingly quiet summer.

Verdict: Wales need their biggest stars to win games. Rees-Zammit will be expected to deliver much more when the tournament resumes.

Tom Curry started the summer as England's first-choice openside but ended it watching Guy Pepper make the No.7 shirt his own.

After a difficult outing against South Africa, Curry found himself overtaken in the pecking order as Pepper seized his opportunity with a series of energetic displays. Injuries haven't helped Curry's rhythm, but the competition for places is now fiercer than ever.

Verdict: Curry has the quality to respond, but he'll have a fight on his hands to reclaim his starting place.

Few young players have attracted as much excitement as Sam Prendergast, but this tournament served as a reminder that development is rarely straightforward.

The fly-half showed flashes of quality but struggled to dictate games against elite opposition, with Ireland's heavy defeat to New Zealand exposing areas of his game that still need polishing. His kicking from hand and attacking vision remain outstanding, but his game management came under scrutiny.

Verdict: Ireland still have a potential superstar on their hands, but Prendergast has plenty to work on before the autumn.

Argentina needed their fly-half to steer the side through a difficult campaign, but Tomas Albornoz never truly took control.

There were moments of quality, but too often Los Pumas lacked direction in key periods of matches and Albornoz struggled to impose himself against the strongest opposition. His frustrations were clear following the defeat to England, with emotions spilling over after the final whistle.

Verdict: Albornoz remains a hugely talented playmaker, but Argentina will need far more authority from their No.10 if they are to challenge for the Nations Championship title later this year.

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