2. Tom Willis (Saracens)
One of the newest arrivals at the StoneX Stadium, Tom Willis has wasted no time in establishing himself amongst the top Saracens stars. Willis entered the weekend with three tries to his 2023/24 campaign, all of which came at the expense of Gloucester. The back-row scored against the Cherry and Whites in the Premiership Rugby Cup back in September, and added two tries away to Kingsholm a fortnight ago.
Willis has continued in his try-scoring form, with his bulldozing power showcased as Sarries clipped the Falcon’s wings up at Kingston Park. The former Wasps man had plenty to do, as he collected the ball close to the right touch-line. An explosive first step battered the tackle attempt of Iwan Stephens, and Willis could not be halted by fullback Elliott Obatoyinbo. The highlight of an awesome performance up in the North East, Willis continues on his top form with a return to the England jersey in sight.
Despite his brother Jack writing himself out of future England contention, by extending his contract with Toulouse, Tom Willis wants back in Borthwick’s plans for the 2024 Six Nations. The number eight looks like the natural Saracens heir to Billy Vunipola, and has been battering the Premiership defences since arriving from Bordeax-Begles. Left out of the Rugby World Cup squad despite reaching the wider-training group, Willis could well be back in the international fold if he keeps up these performances.