Pierre-Louis Barassi, Sam Prendergast, Chandler Cunningham-South, Huw Jones, Matt Gallagher, and Joe Roberts represent the emerging talents and experienced leaders in rugby facing the upcoming Six Nations Tournament. Barassi aims to shine with France, while Prendergast seeks to fill Jonathan Sexton’s shoes for Ireland. Cunningham-South continues to impress for England, Jones provides veteran presence for Scotland, Gallagher makes his mark for Italy, and Roberts steps up for Wales, showcasing the evolving landscape of international rugby.
Barassi: A Journey Towards Greatness
Pierre-Louis Barassi is arguably one of the standout talents of his generation, often compared to the likes of Antoine Dupont. However, his journey with the French national team has been tumultuous, primarily due to persistent injuries that have hindered his progress. This season, the tides appear to be turning for the 26-year-old as he showcases his skills with Stade Toulousain. Early indications suggest that Barassi is poised to start against Wales this Friday, kicking off the Six Nations Tournament alongside France’s top players. This opportunity is well-deserved for someone who has previously operated in the background. Known for his power, penetration, and defensive prowess, the former Lyonnais center has the ability to elevate his teammates’ performance. As his captain Antoine Dupont states, “When he has opportunities, space, and is in full possession of his means, he is a player of great quality.” The stage is set for him to make his mark.
Prendergast: The Future of Irish Rugby
As Ireland seeks a worthy successor to the legendary Jonathan Sexton, all eyes are on the promising talent of Sam Prendergast. At just 20 years old, the Leinster fly-half has been making waves this season and is set to be a focal point in the upcoming Six Nations Tournament for Ireland. He is set to compete against Munster’s Jack Crowley, who has struggled to maintain his form after starting in the previous edition. In contrast, Prendergast has shown remarkable growth, having already donned the number 10 jersey during the last autumn tour, where he demonstrated his capabilities against formidable opponents like Australia. With excellent playmaking skills and a flair reminiscent of Jonny Sexton, Prendergast is a rising star who will likely debut in this year’s Tournament against England on Saturday.
Cunningham-South: The Rising Star
Chandler Cunningham-South, the 21-year-old flanker from Harlequins, has quickly established himself as a vital component of the England squad. After a stellar performance at the U20 level, he made a significant impact during the last Six Nations Tournament and continued to impress in the summer tour against the All Blacks, earning a starting position. Versatile in his play, he can operate both as a flanker and at number 8, showcasing his explosive style and solid defensive skills. As England undergoes a period of rebuilding, Cunningham-South stands out as a key player for the future. Following a commendable autumn tour, where he notably scored two tries against Australia, he is expected to play a crucial role in his second Six Nations appearance.
Huw Jones: A Veteran’s Leadership
Huw Jones, the experienced center for the Glasgow Warriors, steps into a critical role for Scotland in the absence of captain Sione Tuipulotu. Despite not being the captain, Jones is far from a newcomer and is ready to rise to the challenge. Having recently enjoyed a stellar autumn tour, where he scored three tries, the 31-year-old veteran brings both experience and skill to the Scottish backline. With 53 international caps to his name, Jones will be instrumental in the success of the Scottish team alongside Finn Russell in the 2025 Six Nations Tournament. Scotland aims to secure its first title since Italy joined the competition back in 2000, and Jones will play a pivotal role in that pursuit.
Matt Gallagher: The Italian Sensation
On the Italian side, Matt Gallagher is a player to watch in the upcoming Six Nations Tournament. Born in London in 1996 and trained at Saracens, Gallagher recently acquired his Italian passport through his Italian heritage. Coach Gonzalo Quesada recognized his potential and called him up for the summer tour. The winger, who can also excel as a fullback, boasts an impressive background, having played for Munster and Bath, where he reached the last Premiership final, before signing with Treviso. With two caps for Italy under his belt, Gallagher is poised to shine in the 2025 Six Nations, following in the footsteps of his teammate Tomaso Menoncello, who was named the best player in the last edition.
Joe Roberts: The Future of Welsh Rugby
At just 24 years old, Joe Roberts is stepping into a critical role for the Welsh national team. With only two caps to his name and having scored his first international try against France in the previous Six Nations, he faces the challenge of succeeding legends such as Jamie Roberts and Jonathan Davies. Known for his power, speed, and agility, the Scarlets player is now tasked with leading a squad in transition. He has played only six matches this season due to a knee injury that kept him from the autumn tour, but he is set to return to action against the Blues this Friday at the Stade de France. This match will be an opportunity for Roberts to solidify his place in the starting lineup under the guidance of coach Warren Gatland.