Get ready for an exciting dive into the world of rugby! The PREM Rugby Team of the Week is here, and it's a thrilling showcase of talent and determination. This week, we're highlighting some exceptional performances that have caught the eye of many, and one player's journey in particular has us all buzzing.
After nine intense rounds of the PREM season, our Planet Rugby Team of the Week is stacked with talent. The action-packed weekend began with a Friday night doubleheader, where the Newcastle Red Bulls claimed their first win against Gloucester, while the Bristol Bears pulled off a stunning comeback against the Sale Sharks at Ashton Gate.
On Saturday, Bath secured an 81st-minute try victory over their West Country rivals, the Exeter Chiefs, while the Northampton Saints dealt another heavy defeat to Harlequins. Wrapping up the weekend, the Leicester Tigers grabbed a crucial bonus-point win over their play-off rivals, Saracens.
But here's where it gets controversial... At fullback, George Hendy of the Northampton Saints is making a strong case for the Six Nations squad. Week after week, his form shines brighter, and against Harlequins, he put on a dazzling display, racking up impressive stats. With 114 meters gained from 11 carries, three defenders beaten, and a line break, Hendy is on fire! However, some might argue that Elliott Obatoyinbocan should have gotten the nod.
Moving to the wing, Eduardo Todero of the Northampton Saints has adapted seamlessly to the PREM this season. His performance against Harlequins was exceptional, with 148 meters gained from just nine carries and an impressive seven defenders beaten. Todero's late try was the icing on the cake. Immanuel Feyi-Wabosowasn't far behind, but Todero takes the spot.
And this is the part most people miss... Tommy Freeman, the British and Irish Lions and England star, has made a successful shift to the number 13 position for Northampton. His attacking prowess is undeniable, and at 13, he's finding new spaces to work his magic. On Saturday, Freeman notched a team-high 16 carries for 125 meters and finished with a well-deserved try. Will Wandalso impressed for Leicester, but Freeman's impact was undeniable.
At inside center, we have Orlando Bailey of the Leicester Tigers. The former Bath player looked right at home in Leicester's win over Saracens. His handling and playmaking skills were key to Leicester's wide and fast attack, and he also contributed with five defenders beaten. Cameron Redpathwas a close contender, but Bailey's all-round performance sealed the deal.
On the other wing, we find Adam Radwan of the Leicester Tigers. Radwan was in top form against Saracens, touching the ball in almost every strike play and accumulating an impressive 143 meters. He also showcased his defensive skills with an intercept try. Kalaveti Ravouvouheld this position for most of the weekend, but Radwan's all-round game earned him the spot.
At fly-half, Billy Searle of the Leicester Tigers takes the stage. Searle's impressive performance against Saracens sees him leapfrog Fin Smith into the starting lineup. He was a force in Leicester's attack, offering a dual threat with his carrying and distribution, and his kicking off the tee was on point. A truly complete performance!
Our scrum-half is Alex Mitchell of the Northampton Saints. Mitchell, the England and Lions man, is in spellbinding form. Against Harlequins, he was at the heart of Northampton's rampant attack, injecting tempo around the ruck and backing it up with his trademark sniping runs. Simon Benitez Cruzalso played a key role in Newcastle's win over Gloucester.
Now, let's talk about the forwards. At number eight, Alfie Barbeary of Bath gets the nod. Barbeary, an England hopeful, proved himself as a premier ball-carrier, notching a game-high 15 carries for 24 meters and beating eight defenders. He also added a try to his impressive performance.
At openside flanker, Tom Christie of the Newcastle Red Bulls takes the spotlight. Christie's exceptional display in Newcastle's first PREM victory was a true standout. He was a rock in defense, making an incredible 23 tackles at a 100% success rate, and contributed in attack with some nice carries and a try. Tom Pearson also deserves a mention.
Blindside flanker goes to Tom Hooper of the Exeter Chiefs. Hooper had an outstanding performance against Bath, making 17 tackles and two turnovers, but it was his ability to be in the right place at the right time that earned him a spot in our team. Sam Graham and Kane James both made strong cameos off the bench.
In the second row, we have Pedro Rubiolo of the Bristol Bears and Alex Coles of the Northampton Saints. Rubiolo's defensive efforts, with a game-high 19 tackles at a 95% success rate, helped turn the tide in the battle up front. Coles, the England lock, walks straight into our team with his hat-trick and assist for Mitchell. Both players have boosted their England hopes with recent strong performances.
At tighthead prop, we have a close call between Richard Palframan of the Newcastle Red Bulls and Joe Heyes of Leicester. We've opted for Palframan, who has been a stable presence for Newcastle. His defensive efforts, with 13 tackles across his shift, were particularly noticeable.
Hooker goes to George McGuigan of the Newcastle Red Bulls. McGuigan just edges out Jamie Blamire with an all-court display against Gloucester. His try set the tone for the Red Bulls' victory, and he also contributed with tackles, carries, and a turnover.
Finally, at loosehead prop, we have Ellis Genge of the Bristol Bears. Genge, the British and Irish Lions tourist, had a standout performance with 11 carries for 24 meters and four defenders beaten. He looked powerful in the scrum as well. Danilo Fishcetti of Northampton put up a good fight, but Genge takes the spot.
So, there you have it! Our PREM Rugby Team of the Week is a testament to the talent and hard work on display in the league. Who do you think deserves a spot? And are there any controversial picks you'd like to discuss? Feel free to share your thoughts and let's celebrate the beautiful game of rugby together!
