The most OVERRATED and UNDERRATED players for every home nation

Friday, 24 June 2022 at 22:17

byRugby Rucker

Our definition of "overrated" means the player is an underachiever—be it due to a loss of form or overhyped ability. As for the underrated, we took aim at up-and-coming performers or underappreciated players who have yet to get their proper due.

Here's what fans have been saying on the subject.

WALES:

Underrated: Aaron Wainwright - "I know he's not always starting, but he has put in some huge performances for Wales so far. Him and Basham have been two of our best players so far this autumn. He's only 24 still. I just think he goes under the radar or his performances get ignored a lot of the time, but I see him as a future Wales captain to be honest. So much potential."

Overrated: Alun Wyn Jones - "Maybe you've got so many caps as there's been such a paucity of Welsh second rows. Maybe. I really really really don't understand why he is rated so highly"

SCOTLAND:

Underrated: Chris Harris - "I get the feeling people still underrate Chris Harris. A world-class operator who should be rated a lot higher."

Overrated: Duhan van der Merwe - "Reminds me a bit of Tim Visser back in his day, incredible attacker but a complete barn-door in defence."

Duhan van der Merwe of Scotland slips the tackle from Maro Itoje of England Rugby during the Six Nations Championship, 127th Calcutta Cup match between England and Scotland at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on January 6 2021. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

ENGLAND:

Underrated: Owen Farrell - "Unbelievable player and I don’t understand the hate he gets. Farrell is the core around which Eddie jones' England have built the team around. Probably the best goal kicker in NH, amazing defensive 10/12, reliable if not flashy player and consistently adaptable to the varied tactics Jones has thrown at the team."

Overrated: Manu Tuilagi - "Beside the word "overvalued" in the dictionary, there should probably be a picture of Mr.Manu Tuilagi.""

Manu Tuilagi of England during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

IRELAND:

Underrated: Josh van der Flier - "He doesn't get nearly enough appreciation for how well he consistently plays. Not saying he's not appreciated, but he wouldn't get nearly as much praise if he retired early like CJ stander"

Overrated: Johnny Sexton - "A great player and an all round legend, but ultimately staying too long on the scene and tarnishing their memory as a result of said stubbornness to step aside."