Six Nations Week 1: Lions Tour Contenders Rise and Fall

The first week of the Six Nations has provided a glimpse into the potential lineup for the British & Irish Lions' upcoming tour of Australia. Here’s a breakdown of the standout performers and those who need to step up:

1. Andrew Porter, Ireland (prop)

Hamilton: Porter was the most dominant prop in the scrum, outperforming Ellis Genge, Pierre Schoeman, and Gareth Thomas.
Regan: Enhanced his standing with a solid performance against England.

2. Dan Sheehan, Ireland (hooker)

Regan: Made a significant impact off the bench against England and is a strong candidate for the starting lineup.
Hamilton: Considered the outstanding hooker in the northern hemisphere.

3. Zander Fagerson, Scotland (prop)

Hamilton: With Tadhg Furlong injured, Fagerson has a chance to secure his spot.
Regan: Made a good start against Italy.

4. Maro Itoje, England (lock)

Regan: Led from the front as England captain, showing maturity and leadership.
Hamilton: A definite pick for the Lions squad.

5. Joe McCarthy, Ireland (lock)

Hamilton: Expected to return against Scotland after sitting out the weekend.
Regan: James Ryan played well, but McCarthy and Itoje are likely to retain their spots.

6. Tadgh Beirne, Ireland (flanker)

Regan: Versatility is a major asset; expect him to be used as a No. 6.
Hamilton: Tom Curry’s heroic performance deserves inclusion.

7. Rory Darge, Scotland (flanker)

Hamilton: Put in a strong performance against Italy.
Regan: Got through a mountain of work and has the ability to get his side on the front foot.

8. Caelan Doris, Ireland (No. 8)

Regan: Likely to be Farrell’s right-hand-man on the tour.
Hamilton: The Lions captain-in-waiting.

9. Jamison Gibson-Park, Ireland (scrum-half)

Hamilton: Outplayed Alex Mitchell against England.
Regan: Steered his side around the park admirably.

10. Finn Russell, Scotland (fly-half)

Regan: Didn’t have his most influential game but is still the top choice.
Hamilton: It’s still his shirt.

11. James Lowe, Ireland (winger)

Hamilton: Skittled England and was a menace with and without the ball.
Regan: Could have been man-of-the-match.

12. Bundee Aki, Ireland (centre)

Regan: Reminded everyone of his prowess with a strong performance.
Hamilton: Played well but Tuipulotu might still get the nod.

13. Huw Jones, Scotland (centre)

Hamilton: Hat trick hero against Italy.
Regan: Stepped up in the absence of Tuipulotu.

14. Darcy Graham, Scotland (winger)

Regan: Back with a bang after injuries.
Hamilton: All-action performance against Italy.

15. Blair Kinghorn, Scotland (fullback)

Hamilton: In the driving seat for the fullback position.
Regan: Solid against Italy but faces a tough challenge from Hugo Keenan.

As the Six Nations progresses, the competition for spots in the Lions squad will only intensify, with players looking to cement their places for the tour of Australia.