Six Nations Week 2: Spotlight on Fly-Halves, Flankers, and Props

Fly-Halves: A Battle for the Number 10 Jersey

Fin Smith played a pivotal role in England's victory over France with a stellar second-half performance. His creativity led to two crucial tries, solidifying his claim for the fly-half position. Marcus Smith, on the other hand, showcased his versatility from full-back but eyes a return to his preferred role. Meanwhile, Sam Prendergast impressed with his balanced play in Ireland's win over Scotland, earning him the player-of-the-match award. Finn Russell had a quieter game against Ireland but remains a strong contender for the Lions' 10 shirt.

Flankers: Intensity and Versatility - Tom Curry continued to deliver standout performances for England post hip surgery. His relentless presence at the breakdown and crucial carries earned him praise, making him a likely candidate for the Lions' back row alongside Ireland's Caelan Doris. Ben Earl demonstrated his power and energy moving to the flank, while Ollie Chessum made a significant impact off the bench, reinforcing England's line-out.

Props: Dominance in Open Play and Set-Piece - Ireland's Andrew Porter was a force to be reckoned with against Scotland, excelling in both open play and the scrum. His efforts were instrumental in Ireland's four-try victory. Will Stuart also proved his worth for England, translating his club form into the international arena with influential performances. Ellis Genge showcased his toughness and leadership as England's vice-captain.

These performances set the stage for Lions selection, with the management closely tracking the players forming the backbone of their teams in the Six Nations.