The Six Nations has kicked off with the first round of matches completed. Ireland produced an inspired second-half performance to down England 27-22 in Dublin while Wales' miserable time continued 24 hours earlier. They were obliterated by favourites France, who failed to concede a point in their 43-0 win. Scotland registered a 31-19 win over Italy but not before overcoming a stubborn fightback from the Azzurri, who at one point had tied the game 19-19.
And on the back of that opening weekend several players have already built a case for their inclusion in the British and Irish Lions this summer. Head coach Andy Farrell will be using the Six Nations as an excellent barometer as he plots his squad to tour Down Under. Ireland, eyeing a third straight Six Nations, will be tipped to make up the bulk of the squad while there are chances that there will be a strong Scottish contingent. Those from Wales will be fearing for their places.
We take a look at three players who furthered their case for British and Irish Lions selection. After suffering a serious knee injury against South Africa in July last year Sheehan returned to the Aviva Stadium turf. Coming off the bench at the 50-minute mark for only his second appearance since that injury, he put on a match-turning performance against England and showed how he can play a major role in Australia.
Sheehan's all-court excellence was very much visible in Ireland’s fourth try of the game as a delicate tip-on put Jack Conan into a hole to create the initial burst before the 26-year-old produced a pass to set James Lowe away. Ireland looked all the better after having him back and Farrell, who was watching on, would have been pleased. Speaking on the Six Nations Rugby special, former Scotland captain John Barclay praised Sheehan’s cameo, saying: “His influence off the bench in a 30-minute cameo just showed he is streets ahead at hooker. He is the world's best hooker.”.
Martin brought plenty of physicality in England’s outing against Ireland. Moreover, he even had a couple of notable hits to stall momentum and did not miss any of his 14 tackle attempts. England’s lineout also functioned well despite having to sacrifice an extra jumper. While it could mean that they did not threaten their opponents as much as they could have, Maro Itoje and Martin ensured stability in set-pieces and possession.
Next up for England is France and it is possible that Steve Borthwick picks Ollie Chessum for the clash. However, the presence of Martin gives England a tactical flexibility. Despite not being the biggest back row, Scotland’s co-captain has bulked up his ball-carrying. The 24-year-old put on an impressive display against Italy and barged over for Scotland's opening try. Darge recorded almost 28 post-contact metres in 13 carries, which was Scotland's third-highest total in their game against Italy. One cannot undermine his breakdown work as it has always been excellent and he won two turnovers as Scotland held off Italy to secure a victory.
Farrell now has an unenviable task of picking just a hand full of players for the back row, where there is huge competition and quality, but the Scot has definitely made a strong case for himself. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso missed round one of the Six Nations due to a shoulder injury. He remains a doubt for the remainder of the tournament. The England wing has enjoyed a rapid rise with his pace and explosive power huge assets that have made him a must for a lot of people.
Tadhg Furlong, Ireland’s experienced tight-head prop, missed the opener against England with a calf strain. He has been on the last two tours and has started the last six Tests for the Lions. Sione Tuipulotu, Scotland captain was ruled out of the Six Nations with a pectoral injury but has been another standout performer for the Lions. Meanwhile, Dewi Lake, the Welsh hooker, is expected to return back in action towards the end of the tournament.
