My team of the year is packed with Boks, a couple of Scots and even one Georgian... but there's no space for an Englishman after a disastrous 2024, writes CHRIS FOY
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At the end of a year dominated by South Africa and Toulouse, it is a suitable time to play fantasy rugby by selecting a composite global line-up. It is invariably a divisive process, as fans of certain countries and clubs are outraged that their favourites are not picked.
![[French side Toulouse claimed the Champions Cup after a thrilling final against Leinster in May]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/29/22/93568303-14234633-image-a-59_1735510456474.jpg)
But part of the point is that the best individuals are not always in the best teams – look at how Sergio Parisse was feted and honoured throughout his career while carrying a struggling Italy side on his shoulders. In 2024, several Springboks miss the cut for this column’s best side, because Rassie Erasmus engaged in (canny) squad rotation, in order to build depth in all areas.
![[England endured a disappointing 2024 and lost seven of the 12 Test matches played in the year]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/29/22/93568313-14234633-image-a-60_1735510505644.jpg)
And let’s just be clear now; the lack of a single England player is no injustice, given that Steve Borthwick’s national team lost seven of the 12 Tests that they played. Many judging panels opt to include large contingents from the top teams, but this column has gone for a more multi-national blend. It is based on personal preference and inevitably distorted by first-hand evidence (matches viewed in person). For such subjective factors, no apology will be forthcoming. Here goes….
![[Davit Niniashvili illuminated European club rugby and enhanced Georgia’s threat to the establishment]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/29/21/93567901-14234633-image-a-44_1735509423965.jpg)
It was another dominant year for South Africa, who reigned supreme among the other international sides. French side Toulouse claimed the Champions Cup after a thrilling final against Leinster in May. England endured a disappointing 2024 and lost seven of the 12 Test matches played in the year.
![[Tommaso Menoncello deservedly won the Six Nations Player of the Championship award]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/29/21/93567965-14234633-image-a-46_1735509487225.jpg)
