Three English, two Irish, two Welsh, two Scots, two French and one Italian…
No, it’s not some pan-continental Stephen Jones’ Lions selection but the nominees for this season’s Six Nations Player of the Championship.
The public have until 11.59pm on Tuesday to vote for who they think was the outstanding player in this year’s tournament.
Selected by the sponsors’ panel of former players, there are some interesting choices on the shortlist. For instance Jack Nowell has been selected ahead of England full-back Jack Nowell, while Sergio Parisse’s nomination would seem to be based more on reputation than current form.
Ireland’s half-back combination of Conor Murray and Jonathan Sexton are the Irish nominees, recognising their influence on an improving Irish campaign.
Murray scored a Triple Crown of tries against Wales, England and Scotland, while Sexton reminded everyone of his class in attack and bravery in defence during a tournament that saw everything, from high tackles to legal writs, thrown at him.
Scotland’s full-back Stuart Hogg was superb throughout, while France’s Guilhem Guirado was a shining light during a frustrating Championship for Les Bleus, but Billy Vunipola is going to win, isn’t he?
The bullocking England No8 was so crucial to Eddie Jones’ gameplan and so flabbergasting for opposition tacklers, some of whom he may still be picking out of his studs when he goes up to collect his award.
