Players to watch in the Six Nations
Alex Matthews (England)
One of four remaining members of England’s 2014 World Cupwinning squad – along with Emily Scarratt, Natasha Hunt and captain Marlie Packer – Matthews continues to be one of the Red Roses’ most prized weapons. Normally a blindside flanker, she has effortlessly stepped into the No8 role vacated by the retired Sarah Hunter over the past year. A thunderous ball-carrier, it is her industriousness around the field that continually sets her apart.
Elisa Riffonneau (France)
A hooker who has made a huge impact at Ealing Trailfinders, where she joined from France’s top female division last year. Riffonneau has under-20 honours, made a splash at WXV and was part of France’s wider training squad for the 2022 World Cup. Her performances in the Premiership Women’s Rugby have made the selectors sit up and take notice.
Shannon Ikahihifo (Ireland)
Another Ealing Trailfinders recruit having a stellar season in the English top flight. The New Zealand-born second row, whose grandmother was born in Kilkenny, is one of eight uncapped players in Ireland’s squad and has been tearing up trees with her performances in the PWR.
Alessandra Frangipani (Italy)
One of six players who ply their club trade at Villorba near Treviso, the 21-year-old flanker is a deceptively strong ball-carrier. Keep an eye on Sara Mannini, an 18-year-old utility back who is in Italy’s wider training squad and could be in line for her first Test cap despite being still at school.
Emma Orr (Scotland)
Orr has enjoyed a whirlwind couple of years, having established herself as a highly talented outside-centre. The 20-year-old Edinburgh flyer made her Scotland sevens debut aged 18 and has already been tipped to be involved in the inaugural British and Irish Lions women’s tour to New Zealand in 2027.
Gwennan Hopkins (Wales)
A standout player for Gwalia Lightning in the Celtic Challenge, Cardiff-born Hopkins has been widely tipped to be a successor to Sioned Harries, Wales’s former No8 who retired this month. The Hartpury College student is a robust ball-carrier and could provide the extra oomph for Wales in the physical battle.