20. Anthony Watson (Leicester)
19. Steven Kitshoff (Ulster)
18. Ollie Lawrence (Bath)
17. Marcus Smith (Harlequins)
They wrote: “A supreme, generational talent who, of late, has looked in as good a nick as ever. Everyone is aware of what the Harlequin can offer – Smith is never far from a highlights reel – but now his goal must be replicating this form on a consistent basis. Should he achieve that, there could be a world beater in-waiting.”
16. George Martin (Leicester)
15. Duhan van der Merwe (Edinburgh)
They wrote: “Given the majesty of Scotland’s group, global fans arguably did not see the best of the hulking wing during this year’s World Cup. All they would have to do, however, is view highlights of his performances in last year’s Six Nations – and his domestic form. Not many wings are as strong as him in world rugby; and certainly those who come close struggle to combine it with his dynamism.”
14. Mateo Carreras (Newcastle)
13. Jac Morgan (Ospreys)
12. Pierre Schoeman (Edinburgh)
11. Freddie Steward (Leicester)