2026 SIX NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP delivered one of the most exciting tournaments in recent rugby history. France national rugby union team secured the title after a dramatic final-round win against England national rugby union team in Paris.
Despite France lifting the trophy, not every French star made the pundits’ selections for the team of the tournament.
Former Wales national rugby union team captain Sam Warburton and former Scotland national rugby union team skipper John Barclay shared their selections after reviewing the championship.
Interestingly, both experts chose identical backlines, but their forward packs differed. Another surprise came at scrum-half, where French captain Antoine Dupont missed out despite leading his team to the title.
Warburton explained that Dupont had a rare quiet performance during one of the rounds, which influenced his decision.
Meanwhile, Scotland playmaker Finn Russell produced moments of brilliance throughout the competition but received only an honourable mention.
Below are the forward selections highlighted by both analysts.
Forwards Selections
Loose-Head Prop
Rhys Carre – Wales
Warburton praised Carre’s impact throughout the tournament. The powerful prop became a fan favourite in Wales thanks to his energetic performances.
Carre provided strong ball carries and consistently drove his team forward. His ability to break tackles and even score tries made him one of the standout props in the championship.
Hooker
Dewi Lake – Wales
Warburton highlighted Lake’s incredible work rate. The hooker regularly delivered high numbers in tackles, carries, and ruck involvement.
Lake also showed strong leadership during difficult moments for Wales. His physical presence and commitment suited the fast and demanding style of modern rugby.
Julien Marchand – France
Barclay selected Marchand for his consistency. The French hooker impressed with powerful carries, smart decisions, and accurate line-out throwing.
Marchand also contributed strongly in scrums and defensive work, making him a key figure in France’s successful campaign.
Tight-Head Prop
Simone Ferrari – Italy
Barclay chose Ferrari after the Italian prop delivered dominant scrummaging performances during the tournament.
Italy’s scrum created serious problems for opponents, including Scotland. Ferrari’s physical power and technical ability played a major role in that success.
Second Rows
Charles Ollivon – France
Ollivon’s versatility impressed Barclay. The French forward covered several positions during the championship and contributed in crucial moments.
His support play and rugby intelligence helped France maintain momentum in tight matches.
Emmanuel Meafou – France
Meafou brought enormous physicality to the French pack. Barclay highlighted his destructive ball carrying and dominance in collisions.
Even though he did not start every match, Meafou’s influence became clear in key moments, particularly during the final round.
Blind-Side Flanker
Tadhg Beirne – Ireland
Warburton selected Beirne for his ability to deliver during big moments. The Irish forward consistently made crucial plays in defence and at the breakdown.
Open-Side Flanker
Ben Earl – England
Warburton included Earl due to his relentless energy. The England forward provided strong ball carries and maintained a high work rate in every match.
His athleticism and consistency stood out even when England struggled.
Rory Darge – Scotland
Barclay praised Darge for stepping up when Scotland needed leadership. The flanker delivered a strong tournament while competing with rising talent for his position.
Number Eight
Jack Dempsey – Scotland
Dempsey impressed Barclay with his powerful ball carrying and tireless work rate. He also led Scotland’s defensive efforts and topped the championship turnover statistics.
His leadership during crucial moments helped drive Scotland’s performances.
Aaron Wainwright – Wales
Warburton selected Wainwright for his consistent impact at number eight. The Welsh forward delivered strong physical performances and effective ball carrying throughout the tournament.
