Rob Howley has stated that Wales Six Nations’ goal when they play what most people consider to be an unlikely matchup against Ireland on Saturday is to cause havoc in rugby. Rugby fans worldwide are called to book Six Nations 2024 tickets from our online platform ticketing. co. Rugby fans can book Wales Six Nations Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

Since 2012, Wales has only drawn once and lost four of their Six Nations 2024 matches in Dublin versus Ireland. Ireland has taken the lead after convincing bonus-point wins over France and Italy. They are attempting to achieve a thing never done before in the Six Nations 2024: back-to-back grand slams.

If Andy Farrell’s squad defeats Wales, they will also tie the record of 11 straight Six Nations victories a record now held by England and established seven years ago.

Highest Scoring Matches:

The most notable accomplishment for Ireland to date is their victory over Wales in the 2002 tournament. With a winning margin of 44 points that has never been topped, it might have been the biggest victory for either team ever. Wales has prevailed by a score of 29 points ever since before World War I.

A 29-0 rout in 1907 was Wales’s greatest triumph over Ireland to that point.

There was an exhibition match between the two teams before the Home Nations Rugby Union Tournament was established. On January 28, 1882, Wales triumphed at Lansdowne Road in Dublin. Wales 1–2. Rugby fans can book Ireland Vs Wales Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

The final score, which is somewhat less than what is currently used, was given to Ireland. Under the former scoring structure, a try that was correctly converted could only result in a goal. In the Six Nations 2024, Wales and Ireland will play each other at Aviva Stadium on Saturday, February 24.

Not only does he have incredible statistics. But he is a rugby legend because of his unwavering dedication and bravery, which have inspired other players over the years. He will always be recognized for his unwavering passion for the game. Following the announcement of Warren Gatland’s young team. He will compete in the Six Nations in 2024 and is now going through a transitional period.

Wales Assistant Coach Howley

“The task at hand, according to Wales assistant coach Howley, is to make them as uncomfortable as we can for as long as we can while also posing various questions to them. Their organization is excellent. Therefore, I believe we can challenge them in a chaotic game and feel safe doing so. We have to let things go crazy. Each responds to pressure uniquely.”

“For 80 of those one-minute games on Saturday, we need to be able to apply pressure on both sides of the ball. In the end, it will be 23 against 23 if we can accomplish it. We can apply pressure on the ball from both sides and, when necessary, to play with clinical play. We need to be clinical and brutal since there may only be two or three opportunities. You have to be at your best when playing a top-tier team that has never lost.”

The lower part To start for Wales in the match on Saturday, Sam Costelow has been summoned back to the team. During Wales’ 27-26 defeat over Scotland, their Six Nations opener, the Scarlets’ number ten went out with a neck injury. Although Costelow was the only alteration made from that game, he was replaced by Ioan Lloyd. He began at fly-half in the Twickenham encounter against England.

In Another news

In other team news, recruits Cameron Winnett and Alex Mann will make more starts. George North, a center, has won his 120th cap, making him just the third player from Wales to do so, behind Gethin Jenkins and Alun Wyn Jones.

Mackenzie Martin, an uncapped forward from Cardiff’s back row, is listed on the bench for replacements. The 20-year-old has only played nine games for Cardiff in his first full season of professional rugby. He is about to make his Test debut at the Aviva Stadium.

After being banned for breaking betting laws, Howley, the former Wales attack coach from 2008 to 2019. He is back working with the national team this season. He was forced to step back Further starts are made for squad newcomers Cameron Winnett and Alex Mann in other places.

George North Wins the 120th cap

George North, a center, wins his 120th cap. By becoming just the third player from Wales to do so, behind Gethin Jenkins and Alun Wyn Jones. Mackenzie Martin, an uncapped forward for Cardiff’s back row, is listed on the bench for replacements. Though he has just played nine games for Cardiff in his first full season of professional rugby. The 20-year-old is about to make his Test debut at the Aviva Stadium.

when his betting activities were discovered during the game in the lead-up to the 2019 World Cup. He was banned from rugby for eighteen months, half of which was postponed.

Howley’s gratitude to Warren Gatland

“Howley expressed his gratitude to Warren Gatland and the other coaches for considering him and bringing him back into the fold. My girls don’t usually grin for quite some time, so this is the first time we’ve gone out together as a family. What people have said to me has been amazing to the public. Being back in a role I’ve loved for a long time makes me feel really fortunate and grateful.”

Doris set to face Wales

Despite missing Tuesday’s practice, Ireland’s back-row player Caelan Doris is anticipated to be totally healthy for the match against Wales. The 25-year-old sustained “bumps and bruises” while leading his team to victory against Italy.

Hugo Keenan, the full-back, has not yet resumed training following his forced absence due to a knee injury against the Azzurri. However, he will have the opportunity to demonstrate his fitness before Saturday afternoon’s game in Dublin.

“According to the Irish Independent, defense coach Simon Easterby stated at a news conference that Caelan didn’t train and that was the idea at the beginning of the week, just to manage him.

However, we anticipate having him train in full tomorrow, so there shouldn’t be any problems. He likely has more bumps and bruises than a few [knocks]. He’s in a good situation, I suppose, having taken a few knocks against Italy, but he still has to be regulated in a few areas.”

In Ireland’s full-back uniform during the last three years, Keenan has been virtually constant. Easterby responded, “It’s kind of similar to Caelan,” when asked about the 27-year-old’s status. We must give Hugo the chance to demonstrate his fitness because he has been such an integral member of this group since his debut a few years ago. Nevertheless, if he doesn’t make it, we are also really thrilled about the potential chances.”

Farrell, the head coach of Ireland, is another question after suffering a foot injury during Ulster’s 19–17 United Rugby Championship loss to Ospreys on Sunday. Farrell is scheduled to announce his squad on Thursday afternoon.

On Wednesday, Easterby stated, the final decisions regarding Keenan, Doris, and Henderson’s fitness will be made. “He remarked that it would be best not to leave it too late, especially for someone like Caelan. Additionally, you should ensure that the individuals who might start are given the chance to gain experience behind the wheel.”

Rugby admirers can get Six Nations 2024 Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing. co is the most reliable source for booking Guinness Six Nations tickets.

Fans won’t have to wait long for the action to pick back up this weekend as there won’t be any Guinness Six Nations games. Rugby fans worldwide are called to book Six Nations 2024 tickets from our online platform ticketing. co. Rugby fans can book Wales Six Nations Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

Ireland’s Fans eager waiting

After convincing victories over France and Italy, Ireland is well-positioned to win a second consecutive Grand Slam. Because of the Six Nations’ illustrious past, fierce rivalries, and the chance to display patriotism, Ireland supporters look forward to the events with great anticipation. With rugby being a major part of Ireland’s sporting history, the Six Nations is very important to the people there.

Because these matches feature exciting demonstrations of skill and emotion, fans look forward to games against traditional rivals like England, Wales, and Scotland. There is a great vibe both on and off the field because of the tournament’s competitive spirit and the unity among fans. Ireland supporters view the Six Nations as a chance to unite, enjoy their team, and take in all the thrill that the competition has to offer.

Highest Scoring Matches:

Their greatest notable accomplishment to date is the victory over Wales in 2002, which occurred during their reign. The winning margin of 44 points, which has never been equaled, may have made it the biggest victory for either side in history. Wales has won by a score of 29 points every time since before World War I. 1907’s 29-0 rout was Wales’s greatest win over Ireland to that point.

The Home Nations Rugby Union Tournament was founded after the two sides competed in an exhibition match. At Lansdowne Road in Dublin on January 28, 1882, Wales emerged victorious. Wales 1, 2. A far cry from the current scoring system, Ireland was the final score. An accurate conversion on a try could only result in a goal under the previous scoring scheme.

Only one Six Nations draw has occurred since 2000, and that one took place at the Aviva Stadium in 2016. Wales has won nine games, including the first one in 2000, under the current Six Nations format. Wales’s Six Nations matches have been won by Ireland twelve times, but Wales has not triumphed over them.
Such was the pattern in their most recent encounter, which Ireland won 29–7 in Dublin.

In the inaugural Six Nations match of the previous season, Bundee Aki, Andrew Conway, and Garry Ringrose all scored tries to help win a decisive victory. Will the past happen again in Cardiff, or will the team achieve even more success with Warren Gatland back? Rugby fans can book Ireland Vs Wales Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

The thrilling contests of this year

This year’s Six Nations has already produced a lot of thrilling contests. In the race for glory, England has also gotten off to a strong start, winning both of their first two matches. They aim to run Ireland close. While almost blowing a commanding half-time advantage, Scotland started their campaign with a narrow victory over Wales.

Despite a contentious TMO decision that disallowed a late try that would have given them the victory, they lost their second game against France. After being defeated by England over the weekend, Wales is the only team, aside from Italy, to have lost both of their first games.

Rugby fans will be itching to get their fix of action this weekend, but those who were hoping to catch a glimpse of the action in the upcoming round of Six Nations matches will be disappointed. Express Sport is available to provide information on why there are no competitions this weekend and when the upcoming schedule will be announced.

Why is this weekend’s schedule devoid of games?

There is a pause in the tournament schedule between match rounds known as the “relaxation gap” during the Six Nations competition, which gives teams and fans a little time to rest and refuel. This intermission, which frequently takes place in the middle of the competition, gives teams crucial downtime to recuperate from wounds, exhaustion, and the strenuous physical demands of back-to-back play.

This presents an opportunity for tactical modifications, mental preparation for the remaining matchups, and strategic planning. The downtime provides supporters with a reprieve before the tournament picks back up in intensity. It allows them to think back on previous games, look forward to future ones, and engage in other activities.

When teams return to the field feeling revitalized and eager to resume their pursuit of success. This break lends a sense of excitement and anticipation to the Six Nations 2024. So that players and coaches may take some time off and heal before the activity picks back up next week. There won’t be any games this weekend. Tournament regulations do not require a break. But it has historically been observed to guarantee the highest level of player welfare.

Especially when travel and training are factored in, it would be challenging for teams to play five international tests in a matter of weeks. By taking a short break, injured players will have more time to heal. It will improve the likelihood that clubs will field their best lineups when the Six Nations resumes.

When will the next Six Nations 2024 games be played?

The competition will return on Saturday, February 24, with Ireland hosting Wales at the Aviva Stadium in an early kickoff scheduled for 2:15 p.m. Scotland’s matchup with longtime rivals England. They are looking to defeat Gregor Townsend’s team for the first time since 2020, will come next.

France and Italy will play the last round of matches in Paris on Sunday, February 25, with a scheduled kickoff time of 3 p.m. Given that Italy has only won two Six Nations games in the previous nine years. The hosts will be the clear favorites in that one. Teams use it to train ahead of their final matches and to get ready for the rest of the competition.

There will be no fixtures in the Six Nations 2024 competition on the weekends of February 17–19 and March 1–3. Since 2003, the fallow week schedule has been in place, however the format is probably about to alter. The Six Nations schedule will change in 2026 with the addition of the biannual Nations Championship.

For the international calendar to accommodate both competitions. The Six Nations will forfeit one of its best weeks on the year the new tournament is held. The Six Nations will continue to take place in February and March. When there is no other international tournament scheduled, the Nations Championship will take place. Hence, it won’t conflict with either the British and Irish Lions tour or the Rugby World Cup.

Bill Beaumont Remarked

In regards to the future competition, World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont stated: “We now look forward to an exciting new era for our sport commencing in 2026.” An era that promises all people opportunity and certainty.

“An era that will propel the growth of the sport beyond its customary and frequently self-imposed restrictions, and one that will favor the many rather than the few. I express my gratitude to every one of my coworkers for their collaborative spirit.”

Rugby admirers can get Six Nations 2024 Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing. co is the most reliable source for booking Guinness Six Nations tickets.

When Ireland vs Wales play an in-form in Dublin the following weekend, Shane Williams fears they may be in for a hard afternoon. Rugby fans worldwide are called to book Six Nations 2024 tickets from our online platform ticketing. co. Rugby fans can book Wales Six Nations Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

Shane Williams remarked:

Williams progressed through the ranks to rank among the greatest Welsh rugby players of all time. He began a brilliant career spanning more than ten years when he made his Wales debut on the international scene against France in 2000. With his remarkable speed, agility, and footwork, Williams who was just 5 feet 7 inches talked.

Field physical norms and gained the moniker “The Little Wizard.” He was a dangerous force on the field because of his ability to score tries frequently and his versatility in playing all positions along the back line. Williams has a lasting impact on Welsh rugby history as a key player in Wales’ Grand Slam victories in the 2005 and 2008 Six Nations Championships.

His achievements were also seen on the international front, as he traveled to South Africa in 2009 and New Zealand in 2005 as a representative of the British and Irish Lions. Williams, who finished his career as Wales’ all-time top try scorer in 87 appearances with 58 tries, retired from international rugby in 2011.

Highest Scoring Matches:

Ireland’s triumph against Wales during their reign in 2002 stands out as their most noteworthy achievement to date. It may have been the largest win for either side ever, with a winning margin of 44 points that has never been surpassed. Since before World War I, Wales has won by a score of 29 points. Wales’s biggest victory over Ireland to date was a 29-0 whitewash in 1907.

Before the creation of the Home Nations Rugby Union Tournament, the two teams competed in an exhibition match. Wales won at Lansdowne Road in Dublin on January 28, 1882. Wales 1–2. Rugby fans can book Ireland Vs Wales Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

Ireland received the final score, which is significantly lower than the current system. A try that was correctly converted could only result in a goal under the previous scoring scheme. Wales and Ireland will face each other on Saturday 24 February in Six Nations 2024 at Aviva Stadium.

His extraordinary stats are not the only things that make him a rugby star. His unshakable dedication and fearlessness have inspired countless players throughout the years. He will always be remembered for his unwavering passion for the game.

Following the announcement of a youthful squad for the Six Nations 2024. Warren Gatland’s men are presently going through a transitional phase. In their two games thus far. They have lost to both Scotland and England. But the World Cup quarterfinalists kept each of those teams in close range.

Big ask

Despite their encouraging performances in the first two games, Wales ultimately lost 27-26 and 16-14, respectively. They will need to work hard to avoid losing three straight games at the Aviva Stadium. Ireland’s performance in their Six Nations matches against France and Italy has been outstanding. Williams has been greatly delighted with Andy Farrell’s team.

Williams remarked:

“I genuinely do have a dread of this game. Ireland’s performance in this game has greatly impressed me. He told the Evening Standard Rugby Podcast that even though Italy didn’t score a point on Sunday, they didn’t play badly. They were just incredibly frustrated by a well-organized defense, but I felt they really gave it their all and played excellent ball retention.”

“Ireland had to put in a lot of effort even in attack; they weren’t exactly scoring 70- or 80-yard tries without any help. They will play through at least twenty phases; that is how they accomplish it. They put you through a lot and score five meters from the line.”

 “We would talk about how the hooker, Dan Sheehan, rose to become the all-time leader in tries scored for international rugby; that’s how they do it. They made Italy appear quite bad, but I found Italy to be pretty good, so maybe Wales will fare better up there.”

Williams’ bold call

Wales might not have a win going into the last match against Italy. Because they still have games against Ireland and France to come.
However, Williams expressed satisfaction with certain aspects of their performance and made a daring prediction that they would overcome Les Bleus in Cardiff.

“According to Warren Gatland, he will be pleased if they keep moving forward, appear to be becoming more organized, and are putting their strategy together. Although I don’t think we’ll prevail in Ireland, we still have two home games left. This French team is definitely not as formidable as it was at the World Cup.”

“Gatland will focus on that game since, without Dupont, they aren’t as formidable or frightening, and I think they can win it. Italy is the final opponent, and since you have defeated France, you ought to win this match. Given the youngness of his squad, I believe Warren Gatland will be largely satisfied with his performance in the Six Nations if he leaves having won two games and shown growth in that area.”

Favourites to win Six Nations:

Wales’ battle against Ireland, the clear favorites to win the Guinness Six Nations title, in Dublin will be welcomed by the scale of the task, according to Adam Beard. With one draw and four losses in the following Six Nations matches. Wales has not triumphed at the Aviva Stadium since 2012.

Additionally, Ireland is a team that is very much on track to accomplish the extraordinary achievement of winning six consecutive Six Nations Grand Slams.
Many will support Andy Farrell’s team to cause Wales the same misery on February 24 after they comfortably defeated France and Italy with bonus points.

“A large number of Ireland’s players play club rugby together, which helps them play with confidence as a team. To go right into them, we are eager.”

Leigh Halfpenny and Dan Biggar have retired from Test rugby. Louis Rees-Zammit is now focusing on a potential American football career. Dewi Lake, Taulupe Faletau, and Jac Morgan are among the injured players giving Wales a different appearance in this season’s Six Nations.

Others, such as Cameron Winnett, Ioan Lloyd, Archie Griffin, and Alex Mann, have benefited from Six Nations opportunities, and Dafydd Jenkins. A lock from Exeter who is 21 years old, is Wales’ youngest captain in 56 years.

Rugby admirers can get Six Nations 2024 Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing. co is the most reliable source for booking Guinness Six Nations tickets.

Hugo Keenan, Ireland’s standout fullback, is expected to be sidelined for their Six Nations Ireland vs Wales match at the Aviva Stadium, which presents Andy Farrell with a selection dilemma. Rugby fans worldwide are called to book Six Nations 2024 tickets from our online platform ticketing. co. Rugby fans can book Wales Six Nations Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

Even though Farrell has a deep roster, the absence of Mack Hansen and Jimmy O’Brien due to injury has severely reduced his options for outside backs ahead of the Six Nations.

Farrell Records

Week in and week out, he will suddenly be without Keenan, one of the first names on his team sheet. Interestingly, no player has played more minutes for Ireland since Farrell took over as head coach (2916). This is because the fullback is always dependable. Since February 2021, he has been the starter in 25 of the 28 Tests. In the interim, we examine Farrell’s choices. It is said that he will be back in time for the round four match against England in March.

Front runner

Fly-half Jack Crowley took over the position after Keenan was substituted off the field against Italy last week, with Harry Byrne occupying the first receiving channel. Even while this strategy was somewhat successful for the rest of the game, it seems unlikely that Farrell will remove his productive and still-developing playmaker from the starting fly-half position.

This suggests that against Wales, Ciaran Frawley, a gifted player with versatility, will step in for Keenan. Though he has excelled in a variety of situations for his province in recent seasons, including fullback, the Leinster star is being tipped for a career at fly-half. His insertion at fullback would be a clean swap from the first-choice starting lineup, preventing a backline shuffle. He possesses the skill set and ability to fill the position with ease.

Highest Scoring Matches:

The most notable victory Ireland has ever had over Wales was during their hegemony in 2002. With a winning margin of 44 points that hasn’t been topped since it’s possibly the biggest victory for either team. Wales has won by a score of 29 points ever since before World War I. The 29-0 shutout in 1907 is the greatest win Wales has ever achieved over Ireland.

The two teams faced off in an exhibition match before the Home Nations Rugby Union Tournament was created. On January 28, 1882, at Lansdowne Road in Dublin, Wales triumphed. Wales 1-2 The final score was Ireland, a far cry from the current scoring system. Under the original scoring system, a try that was correctly converted could only result in a goal. Rugby fans can book Ireland Vs Wales Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

Since 2000, there has only been a single Six Nations draw, which took place in 2016 at the Aviva Stadium. In the current Six Nations structure, Wales has won nine games and even the inaugural one in 2000. Ireland has won twelve of Wales’ Six Nations matches, but Wales has not overcome them.

In their most recent meeting, which Ireland won 29–7 in Dublin, this pattern was followed. Bundee Aki, Andrew Conway, and Garry Ringrose all scored tries to secure a resounding victory in the first Six Nations game of the previous season. Will the history repeat itself in Cardiff, or will Warren Gatland’s return inspire his squad to even greater success?

On the fringe

Jordan Larmour will be hoping for a chance to play against Wales because he is one of just five players (Keenan, Jacob Stockdale, Mike Lowry, and Jimmy O’Brien) to have worn the number 15 jumper during Farrell’s tenure.
Under the present system, he is viewed more as a winger, although he does have the positional awareness to play the role. His kicking game is not yet up to the level of Frawley and others, which will work against him.

When Keenan pulled out of the match against Italy, Larmour was on the bench. But Byrne was called upon to step up in place of the explosive outside back. This might mean that his skill set is not what Farrell needs from a fullback. Or maybe the Ireland manager only wanted to try Crowley in the position because Italy wasn’t really a threat at that point.

In the mix

Although, as previously mentioned, it wouldn’t make much sense for Crowley to take on the position given that he is still developing at number ten. He will undoubtedly be included. If they hadn’t been injured, Hansen and O’Brien would have been excellent prospects. But the most recent setback in their injuries may present a chance for a call-up.
A case may also be made for Stockdale, who was one of the few players under Farrell to start at the position. Due to a terrible string of injuries, he lost the trust of the selectors. Putting him in the team at his backup position might be the kind of encouragement he needs to regain his best form.

Outside bets

For Wales, Byrne might possibly be picked at fullback, even though he entered the game against Italy as a fly-half. A fly-half might potentially share some of the tasks with Crowley, as he possesses many of the same talents as a modern-day fullback. On the wing for Farrell’s team, Calvin Nash has shown promise, and he has occasionally been included in Munster’s 15 jumper.

Again, it is improbable that he will leave the role in which he flourished when he was still relatively unknown on the global scene, even though he might be in the mix. After he was left off of the squad, Simon Zebo disclosed that Farrell had advised him to “stay ready.” Although he is still recovering from a knee injury, given his background. It wouldn’t be completely out of the question for him to be elevated to the starting group.

James Lowe could be helpful

James Lowe could be useful to Ireland because he used to play fullback for the Chiefs and Maori All Blacks. Despite his primary position being on the wing since his arrival in Ireland. Fans rapidly grew fond of Lowe because of his explosive speed, great ball-carrying abilities, and talent for scoring spectacular tries.

His exceptional play earned him a call-up to the Irish national team, for which he qualified by residency. Against Wales in the 2020 Autumn Nations Cup, Lowe made his debut for Ireland on the international scene. He has since established himself as an essential member of the Irish team. Displaying his talent and athleticism on the global scene.

Taking Lowe’s move to fullback would be very easy for Farrell because he has other wing alternatives available to him. It would still be a reasonably simple solution to make the necessary adjustments to make sure his cannon boot is not wasted.

Rugby admirers can get Six Nations 2024 Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing. co is the most reliable source for booking Guinness Six Nations tickets.

This season of Six Nations, Super Rugby World will be implementing a major adjustment that will close the so-called “Dupont law” gap. Rugby fans worldwide are called to book Six Nations 2024 tickets from our online platform ticketing. co. Rugby fans can book Ireland Six Nations Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

This trial, approved by World Rugby, aims to close a gap that Antoine Dupont initially exploited when he was at Toulouse. The loophole, which is more of an exploitation than a legal restriction, centers on players who are in an offside position following a kick. They can stay in place (beginning from more than 10 meters back from where the ball falls) until the ball catcher moves, which includes running five meters, kicking, or passing.

They are not required to withdraw until they are back onside. After a kick, this tactical move puts the catcher in a difficult predicament by allowing teams to cover the frontline and backfield simultaneously. The offside players re-enter the game as soon as the catcher tries to counterattack, which throws the ball carrier off balance.

To the frustration of onlookers, the game thus descends into a boring cat-and-mouse situation. There have been numerous proposals for regulation changes as a result of the widespread criticism of the abuse of this loophole. Leading the charge in putting these improvements into effect is Super Rugby Pacific.

Kevin Malloy emphasized

“The tournament chair, Kevin Malloy, stressed that this change is a response to input from players, coaches, and spectators alike. Malloy said, “Our goal is to provide an engaging and joyful experience for both players and fans.

This entails encouraging free play and lowering the frequency of “kick tennis” situations, in which teams take advantage of openings to seize the upper hand in the territory. We intend to promote aggressive ball handling and counterattacking opportunities to improve the overall game’s spectacle.”

Nigel Owens identifies his ultimate rugby utopia

It’s truly noteworthy that Owens chose a large number of captains among his teammates. All of the groups have left their respective nations.

NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:

Here is the list of following Nigel Owens dream XV:

Fullback: Israel Folau, Australia

Owens said: “There’s not much to choose between Halfpenny and Folau in my opinion. Leigh excels at both kicking at goal under pressure and under the high ball. While he may not always put his body on the line when racing, he is an excellent match-winner who also plays defense.

But Folau is my choice only just, I should emphasize because he seems to be able to outplay his guy every time he has the ball in his hands. Like Leigh, he’s a very entertaining player and among the greatest when it comes to playing under the high ball. For me, it’s a coin flip. and Folau has won out in the end.

Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu, New Zealand

Owens stated: “He’s an exceptional player who always comes up to hug me after every game, win or lose.” Whenever there is an event held after a game, or if we are staying at the same hotel, Ma’a always makes time to stop by and talk. And what a player, too. one of the mainstays of the New Zealand team for a very long time.”

Lock: Paul O’Connell, Ireland

Owens remarked: “To put it plainly, he was a superb leader. Whether it was Ireland or Munster, I have managed games where he virtually carried his team to win on his back.”

Winger: Stuart Hogg, Scotland

Owens remarked: “Watching Hogg perform is sure to impress anyone. As he jumped into that line and won the Six Nations player of the Tournament, he was very enthusiastic. Although he plays full-back for Scotland, he could just as easily play on the wing because of his quickness and directness. Certain qualities about him make me think of Shane Williams.

You’ll realize how well they would complement one another when you see who is on the opposing wing of my team.”

Fly-half: Dan Carter, New Zealand

Owens remarked: “There are several excellent outside halves, but none have achieved this over as long as Carter. Some predicted that he was passed his prime and would not make the New Zealand team for the 2015 World Cup. However, Carter’s ability to play as effectively after recovering from an injury is a hallmark of a unique talent.”

Scrum-half: Agustin Pichot, Argentina

Owens remarked: “I used to love watching Dwayne Peel play scrum-half for Wales, the Lions, and Llanelli during his prime, which was between 2004 and 2006. Not only is he a fantastic guy and talented, but he also lives right next door! However, I have to say that I like Pichot, who was a fantastic rugby player for the Pumas and an even greater representative of the sport overall.”

“Argentina became one of the best teams in the world because of the contributions of Pichot and Felipe Contepomi. His masterminding their 2007 World Cup run to the semi-finals also established the precedent for their outstanding performance in the competition in 2015.”

Rugby fans can book Ireland Vs Wales Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.

Blindside-flanker: Thierry Dusautoir, France

Owens said: “Some may take exception at my selection of Dusautoir as the best skipper I’ve ever encountered, but what a captain. Throughout his career, he consistently put his body on the line (just think back to the 38 tackles he made when France eliminated the All Blacks from the 2007 World Cup). He also set a great example and had a deep understanding of the game. He also impeccably carried himself.”

“He never voiced any objections about the refereeing, not even when France was the losing team in close calls. He refrained from assigning blame to anyone when his team lost the 2015 World Cup against New Zealand, 62–13. He behaved as a real leader ought to.”

Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll, Ireland

“According to Owens, he is not just one of the best centers in rugby union history, but he is also an amazing person off the field. O’Driscoll has been a true leader and a fantastic representative for the sport. He was a model citizen who always showed respect for the referees. A legendary player who exhibited impeccable behavior both on and off the field.”

Tighthead-prop: Phil Vickery, England

Owens remarked: “I always had plenty of time for him, thought he was a good man, and was an excellent referee. He wasn’t the type to complain about choices; instead, he would take the call and go on. When he was playing at his best, both with England in 2007 and the Wasps during their sweeps through Europe, he was a powerful player. Carl Hayman, a fantastic player who is also quite honest, is just edged out. He would accept punishment when I corrected him when he got it wrong.”

Loosehead-prop: Gethin Jenkins, Wales

“Though he doesn’t smile much, Owens said that he’s been an excellent loose-head prop player. When I punish him and he smiles, I know I made the correct choice! To sum up, though, he hasn’t grinned much since I’ve recommended him. Another whose endurance over time says volumes about his aptitude and moral fibre.”

Winger: Shane Williams, Wales

Owens remarked: “I’ve been fortunate enough to oversee so many amazing players that it’s nearly hard to choose just one when people ask me who the best player I have refereed. If forced to choose, though, I would go with Shane because of his accomplishments after quitting football at the age of 17 or 18.”

“He was similar to Gerald Davies in that he overcame defenders with such amazing sidesteps that left them panting for air. I can assure you that no one would want to play defence against a back three consisting of Shane, Hogg, and Folau.”

Openside-flanker: Richie McCaw, New Zealand

Owens remarked: “How can I not go with Richie, even though David Pocock and others have been in this situation before? Selecting between him and Gareth Edwards as the greatest player in history would undoubtedly be a challenging task.”It’s amazing how McCaw played flanker for so long, putting his body in danger and occasionally being on the wrong side of the ruck.”

Hooker: John Smit, South Africa

Owens stated: “He is undoubtedly one of the best leaders I have ever worked with, having guided the Springboks to victory against the 2009 Lions and at the 2007 World Cup in France. He was a great player at hooker and a decent man overall.”

Lock: Alun Wyn Jones, Wales

Owens said: “A man of few words, he speaks for himself on the field by his deeds. He is not just an excellent player and captain, but I don’t believe I have ever officiated a game when he didn’t give it his all.”

Number 8: Sergio Parisse, Italy

Owens said: “Throughout my career, I’ve had the good fortune to referee several amazing No. 8s, but Sergio is the best. He rarely has a poor game because he is such a gifted player. He’s been terrific, but perhaps there’s a propensity to try and do too much since he’s been on an underperforming Italy or Stade Francais team.”

Rugby admirers can get Six Nations 2024 Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing. co is the most reliable source for booking Guinness Six Nations tickets.