5. Louis Rees-Zammit, Wales
McGeechan’s 2020 prediction:
Rees-Zammit was lauded for his explosive pace and finishing ability, with his first Wales cap imminent.
What happened next:
Rees-Zammit has become a star for Wales, earning caps and scoring tries with regularity. He was one of the standout players in the 2021 Six Nations, helping Wales to win the tournament. He also toured with the British and Irish Lions in 2021. However. he quit the sport in January 2024 to try and play in the NFL, first signing with the Kansas City Chiefs before subsequently joining Jacksonville Jaguars.
6. Cameron Redpath, England/Scotland
McGeechan’s 2020 prediction:
Destined to play for England, Redpath was seen as a rangy, skilled centre with a bright future.
What happened next:
Redpath chose to represent Scotland and made an instant impact in his debut during Scotland’s famous win against England in the 2021 Six Nations. Injuries have hampered his progress, but he remains a player with significant potential for both Bath and Scotland.c
7. Jamie Dobie, Scotland
McGeechan’s 2020 prediction:
A promising young scrum-half, Dobie had George Horne and Ali Price ahead of him in the Scotland pecking order.
What happened next:
Dobie has continued to develop but remains behind Price and Horne in the Scotland setup. He has made strides at Glasgow Warriors and earned a few Scotland caps. Dobie’s time could still come, but patience will be key as he continues to evolve as a player.
8. James Grayson, England
McGeechan’s 2020 prediction:
The son of Paul Grayson, James was seen as a clever tactical fly-half with good mentorship at Northampton Saints.
What happened next:
In 2023, Grayson made the move to Japan, joining Mitsubishi Dynaboars in Japan Rugby League One. His international ambitions remain on hold, but he continues to develop his game in a new environment while playing an important role for his new club.
9. Luke Jacobson, New Zealand
McGeechan’s 2020 prediction:
Jacobson was tipped to be a regular in the All Blacks’ back row by the 2023 World Cup.
What happened next:
Jacobson has lived up to expectations, becoming a regular in the All Blacks’ squad. He was part of New Zealand’s 2023 World Cup campaign and has continued to impress with his physicality and work rate for both the Chiefs and the national team. He has a bright future ahead of him in New Zealand rugby.
10. Jordan Petaia, Australia
McGeechan’s 2020 prediction:
Petaia was highlighted for his size, power, and natural ball-handling ability, with injuries hampering his progress at the time.
What happened next:
Petaia has become a mainstay for the Wallabies, playing both in the centre and on the wing. While injuries continue to be a concern, his versatility and ability to break the game open make him a crucial part of Australia’s plans. He played in the 2023 World Cup and is expected to be a key player as the Wallabies rebuild.
