Get ready for an exciting journey as we dive into the PREM Rugby season so far! The race for the play-offs is heating up, with an intense battle at the top and an intriguing fight at the bottom.
After nine thrilling rounds, we bring you the PREM Team of the Season, a squad that's sure to spark some debate.
But here's where it gets controversial... some big names might be missing, and we're about to uncover why.
Backs:
15. George Hendy (Northampton Saints): Hendy has been an absolute revelation this season. His elusive moves and growing importance in the Saints' attack have propelled him to the top. With more space and time at 15, he's a force to be reckoned with, ranking high in attacking stats.
14. Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints): The British and Irish Lions tourist has transformed into a new beast. Freeman's versatility and impact at 13, 14, or 15 have been crucial in Northampton's rise. He leads the try-scoring charts and is a key reason for their success.
13. Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs): After a challenging campaign, Slade is back with a bang. His experience and class shine through, reminding everyone of his 2023/24 PREM Player of the Year award. Slade's classy touches are a key part of Exeter's new-look attack.
12. Seb Atkinson (Gloucester): Despite a tough year for Gloucester, Atkinson shines. He's established himself as one of the league's best ball-carriers, ranking highly in metres gained and gainline carries. Atkinson's developing playmaking skills add an exciting dimension.
11. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Exeter Chiefs): Exeter has missed Feyi-Waboso's impact. Returning from injuries, he's hit the ground running, becoming their key attacking weapon once again. His try-scoring prowess and impressive stats make him a standout choice.
10. George Ford (Sale Sharks): Ford's selection caused some sleepless nights, but his confidence and class shine through. Despite Sale's form, Ford has climbed the England ranks. His solid kicking game and points-scoring ability make him a key asset.
9. Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints): With tough competition at scrum-half, Mitchell edges ahead. He's the beating heart of Northampton's attack, setting the tempo with his quick distribution and threat around the ruck. Mitchell leads the assist charts, a testament to his impact.
The Pack:
8. Tom Willis (Saracens): Willis has been the standout player in the PREM so far. His relentless performances, despite Saracens' inconsistencies, are remarkable. He leads the league in carries, gainline carries, defenders beaten, and offloads. A true force of nature.
7. Fitz Harding (Bristol Bears): Flanker is a position of strength, but Harding has elevated his game. Consistently impressive, Harding has taken his performance to new heights, pushing himself into the England discussion. His tackle count and turnover stats are impressive.
6. Miles Reid (Bath): Reid is in the form of his life. Like Harding, he's a consistent performer, but this season he's in a league of his own. His all-round game is exceptional, ranking highly in carries, gainline carries, and turnovers. A true Six Nations contender.
5. Alex Coles (Northampton Saints): Coles has had a breakthrough season. His work ethic and attacking prowess have made him a key part of the Saints. With five tries, he's added an offensive threat to his already solid game.
4. Dafydd Jenkins (Exeter Chiefs): Jenkins has been a true captain's knock this season. Leading Exeter's resurgence, he's a tone-setter, particularly in the tight. His defensive prowess is evident, ranking second in tackle stats.
3. Thomas du Toit (Bath): The World Rugby Dream Team member has adapted well to a different role. Du Toit's impact is undeniable, crossing the whitewash with ease. A true all-round performer.
2. Gabe Oghre (Bristol Bears): Oghre has stood out in a tough position. Blending Bristol's trademark style with grit and steel, he's excelled in the set-piece, topping the lineout stats.
1. Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears): Genge has been on fire, especially in the loose. His marauding best has been on full display, backed up by strong scrummaging. A well-deserved spot in the team.
And this is the part most people miss... the impact of these players extends beyond the stats. Their influence on their teams and the league as a whole is immense.
So, what do you think? Are these players worthy of their spots? Who would you have picked differently? Let's discuss in the comments and share our rugby insights!
