As the dust settles on Round Four of the Six Nations, our team of the week boasts a blend of English and Italian prowess, complemented by the French finesse that lit up the weekend.
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Starting off the round on Saturday, Italy held on despite intense late pressure to secure their first Six Nations home win since 2013 as Scotland’s title hopes were all but ended by an abject second-half collapse in Rome.
Next up, Marcus Smith kicked a last-gasp drop-goal as England stunned Ireland and ended their chance to win back-to-back Grand Slams in a Six Nations thriller at Twickenham.
Sunday’s spectacle belonged to France, as they delivered a masterclass in attacking rugby, overpowering a valiant yet winless Wales side in Cardiff.
With six players from England and Italy, and three from France, our team of the week encapsulates the captivating drama and stellar performances that defined Round Four of the Six Nations.
Six Nations team of the week: Round Four
15. Ange Capuozzo (Italy)
14. Damian Penaud (France)
Planet Rugby: “We are convinced that he isn’t too sure what he is going to do until the last split second as he constantly kept the Welsh defence on their toes. France look far more lethal on attack when he gets his hands on the ball, and he did so on several occasions today.”
13. Juan Ignacio Brex (Italy)
12. Ollie Lawrence (England)
RUCK: “Great finish for the first try, as he sealed the move with an impressive dive over the try-line. Thought he was over for the second from his own kick chase, yet George Furbank’s knock on hindered his efforts and the try was disallowed. A solid effort from the Bath man, who ran out a far better performance than against Scotland.”
11. Louis Lynagh (England)
Planet Rugby: ” the Harlequins speedster did not have many attacking opportunities but when he did receive the ball, he made it count as he crossed for a well-taken try on his Test debut. Also did well to keep the dangerous Van der Merwe in check on defence.”