The rugby world is abuzz with the latest developments, and it's time to dissect the winners and losers of the weekend's action. Here's a breakdown of the key moments and the players who are making their mark, along with some personal insights and commentary.
Will Jordan: The Rising Star
Will Jordan is on fire! His hat-trick against the Azzurri was a testament to his talent and determination. Jordan's performance was a masterclass in poacher's efforts, showcasing his ability to chase kicks and support lines with precision. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that he achieved it in just 56 outings, surpassing Doug Howlett's record. Jordan's trajectory from his debut in 2020 to becoming a cornerstone of the All Blacks team is a story of rapid progression. His performance against the Azzurri, where he also wore the captain's armband, further cements his status as a rising star in the sport.
Henry Pollock: The Rising England Star
Henry Pollock's performance against the Azzurri was a statement of intent. With 32 minutes on the clock, he took control of the game, almost making it the 'Henry Pollock show'. His hat-trick and second-most metres across the Test are impressive feats, especially considering his recent performances in big games. Pollock's confidence is evident, and his start in the England team is not far off. His ability to perform under pressure and his recent success in the PREM final and semi-final victories make him a player to watch.
Sean Jansen: The Connacht Man
Sean Jansen's debut for Connacht was a well-executed display of basics. He carried hard, tackled well, and earned a try, which was exactly what Ireland needed. With a large number of the current crop approaching the end of their careers, Jansen's age profile of 27 years makes him a key player for Ireland's long-term plans. His performance against the Azzurri cements his potential to step into the role of number eight, a position currently held by Caelan Doris.
France: The Nations Championship Champions
France's big win over the Wallabies in the Nations Championship was a response to their vocal critics. The playmaking axis of Maxime Lucu, Romain Ntamack, and Matthieu Jalibert worked seamlessly, showcasing their talent and potential. Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang's fine Test debut, bagging a brace, further strengthened the team's depth. This performance mirrors their success in the Six Nations, with a similar squad and a similar strategy. The fact that they achieved this after a brave performance against the All Blacks without their Top 14 finalists proves their resilience and depth.
England: The Must-Win Test
England's 11-try win over Fiji was a much-needed boost after five straight defeats and mounting pressure on head coach Steve Borthwick. The changes made within the team, including the likes of Henry Slade and Guy Pepper, were crucial in securing the victory. With Argentina next on the agenda, a win would be significant for England's morale. The team's performance against Fiji was a step in the right direction, and they now need to build on this momentum.
Finn Russell: The Scotland Fly-Half
Finn Russell's performance against the Springboks was described as 'quite possibly the finest Test match of his career'. His all-court game at Loftus Versfeld was a joy to watch, despite the scoreboard denying him the win. Russell's ability to perform under pressure and his recent success in big games make him a key player for Scotland. His return from injury and his ability to adapt to different roles showcase his versatility and leadership.
Pacific Island Nations: The Weekend's Losers
The Pacific Island nations had a tough weekend, tasting defeat to European opposition. Fiji's heavy loss to England, Tonga's defeat to Spain, and Samoa's loss to Georgia were all disappointing results. The fact that none of them picked up any form of bonus points will sting, as they lose ground in their respective pools. However, they have winnable Tests lined up this weekend, providing an opportunity to bounce back and forget about the weekend's defeats.
SA Rugby Drug Scandal: A Setback
South African rugby has been hit with another drug scandal, with a urine sample from Kai Pratt returning an adverse analytical finding. This comes on the heels of Asenathi Ntlabakanye's 18-month ban, painting an ugly picture for the union. The ongoing issues with drug scandals and player bans are a significant setback for the sport, and it will take time and effort to restore trust and confidence.
Wallabies: The Losing Mojo
The Wallabies are in a sticky situation, with a run of nine defeats from their past 10 Tests and a lack of wins since October last year. The ongoing coaching saga might have an effect on their performance, but they need to find a way to win and rebuild their confidence. Their recent performances against the British and Irish Lions, the Springboks, and Argentina suggest they are capable of better, and a win could help them regain their mojo.
