5 rookies who lit up this year’s Six Nations
An eventful Guinness Six Nations has seen a crop of emerging talent announce their arrival on the Test stage.
Here the PA news agency picks five players who enjoyed a breakthrough tournament.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, England, wing, 21
It is an indication of Feyi-Waboso’s impact in only three caps that he was missed when ruled out against France because of a concussion.
A genuine X-factor player with pace and power who had Twickenham on their feet for the visit of Ireland in round four.
Joe McCarthy, Ireland, second row, 22
McCarthy’s coming-of-age display against France on the opening weekend went unmatched in the rest of the Six Nations but his status as a second-row enforcer was already assured.
Bristles with aggression on both sides of the ball.
Cameron Winnett, Wales, full-back, 21
One of the slightest players on the international stage but Winnett’s speed, footwork and handling have proved a handful for opponents.
Not bad for a player with just 15 professional appearances for Cardiff to his name before the tournament began.
Tommaso Menoncello, Italy, centre, 21
Menoncello’s international appearances before this Six Nations lacked consistency but he is now becoming the force his talent suggested was possible.
Powerful and direct, has has the physicality to make an impact in attack and defence.
Nolann Le Garrec, France, scrum-half, 21
An outrageous 35-metre reverse pass headlined a man-of-the-match display against Wales that was also his first start.
Faced with the impossible task of replacing Antoine Dupont, Le Garrec has shown there may be life outside the France superstar after all.