These four British & Irish Lions contenders put in standout performances today as England and Wales both picked up wins in the 2021 Six Nations.
1.Josh Navidi (Wales)
Navidi was the Player of the Match pick for many and his stats proved why. The 30-year-old back row carved up in Rome with 19 tackles, seven carries and a try assist in a fine 80 minute performance.
The Birdgend-born Cardiff Blues man has had to put in the hard yards to be where he is today; his story of emerging from the relative obscurity performing for his club side to integral member of the Welsh national team is something which is starting to really capture the imagination.
He has almost become undroppable for Wales - surely only a matter of time before Warren Gatland and the Lions come calling if his form continues for the rest of the Six Nations.
2. Anthony Watson
Watson showed something like his career-best form on his 50th England appearance.
The 27-year-old opened England's account in style just 10 minutes in and grew into one of the best performers on the pitch, eventually being named as the official Player of the Match.
The Bath flyer has been around the international set up since way back in 2014 and has already played in two World Cups, while he starred in the 2017 Lions tour - viewed by many as one of the best players in the entire squad that year.
His form since 2019 has come into question but Eddie Jones has kept faith in the winger and his loyalty was repaid in spades this afternoon as he helped unravel France's hopes of a Grand Slam.
Lions boss Warren Gatland knows all about Watson and he will be hard to ignore in this form.
3. Louis Rees-Zammit (Wales)
The young breakout star of this year's competition, Rees-Zammit once again impressed in the famous red shirt. Will he be wearing another famous red shirt later this year?
The 20-year-old continued his impressive scoring run with a scorching 80-metre dash for the tryline after a slick interception read.
Despite his tender years, he already has all the makings of a future international great and his sheer pace would be a dangerous asset for the Lions to have on tour.
Is he playing his way into a starting spot already?
4. Tom Curry
Industrious, willing and full of passion, Tom Curry's first half performance was crucial in hauling England into the lead after a disastrous start.
It's hard to believe Curry is still only 22 years old, but he's showing serious signs he could be a cornerstone of both England and the Lions for many years to come.
The Sale Sharks star has already picked up 30 England caps since 2017 and his work both on and off the ball made all the difference against France.
He had just turned 19 last time the Lions toured four years ago, he seems more than ready for the step up in 2021.
A nailed-on starter?
