My team of the 6 Nations

15. Stuart Hogg

Hogg and Halfpenny were in a league of their own in full back terms. Masi and Goode were both impressive,  but Hogg was outstanding.

14. Leigh Halfpenny

The only way I could give Hogg the full back slot was if Halfpenny was already in the team. Wingers weren't as good throughout the entire tournament. Zebo and Gilroy showed well for Ireland, but not enough to warrant selection here. Maitland performed intelligently without setting the world alight and was probably best of the rest.

13. Manu Tuilagi

There weren't many contenders here, but Tuilagi made a difference when he came into the English side, and thus gets the spot here.

12. Wesley Fofana

Solely for the try of the tournament and the fact that not many backs performed this year. Matt Scott is worth a mention, and I would have liked to see more of Twelvetrees.

11. Alex Cuthbert

This was a toss up between Cuthbert and George North, with Cuthbert sneaking it for me for his tries in the final game against England.

10. Owen Farrell

There really was no one else. He showed good maturity throughout and cemented a place on the Lions tour.

9. Greig Laidlaw

Showing how good he is. Youngs did well for England, and Murray showed some great form, but I think Laidlaw lead Scotland well, and directed the best bits of what they did.

1. Cian Healy

Gethin Jenkins eventually came into it and pushed Healy close. But the Scottish game showed how far Healy has come and how much he was missed.

2. Rory Best

Best had two nightmares with the lineout but was exemplary in open play, especially in the Welsh game where I thought he was man of the match. Not many other hookers performed, with Hibbard the next best.

3. Adam Jones

In a toss up between Cole and Jones, Jones won the battle today, and is the strongest scrummager and frontrunner for the test spot.

4. Andrew Coombes

Did very well in his debut campaign, and was unlucky to be dropped for the last game. The English locks were good as well.

5. Jim Hamilton

Completely outshone Richie Gray and dismantled many opposition line outs, with Rory Best struggling in particular.

6. Alessandro Zanni

My player of the tournament. Made some huge carries, and was the outstanding member of a performing Italian backrow.

7. Justin Tipuric

How he isn't first choice for Wales, and should be first choice for the Lions. A colossus, and his inclusion turned the Welsh campaign around.

8. Louis Picamoles

Admittedly I changed from Parisse at the last minute here, as Picamoles has been one of the only consistent French players, carrying strongly and making huge tackles.

Ireland's RWC 2015 Options from Ciaran Burke

Ciaran Burke of (@burke_cb) takes a look at the options for Ireland going forward until the World Cup in 2015.

As Ireland's 6 Nations season comes to an end against Italy this weekend ,we seem to be left with a lot of questions;

Yes, we have blooded some new talent to test rugby, but in many people's opinion it's too little too late for this management team.

So as our attention will undoubtedly turn to who will take over the international reigns or will kidney get another crack at the task ahead, I've decided to look into my crystal ball and pick a panel for the World Cup in England in 2015, ill also try and look at who can make the step up to test rugby and look at who can lead us there.

By the time the World Cup comes around chances are that D'Arcy and Drico will probably have retired and with O'Connell, Ross and others close to facing the same decision. O'Connell has stated that he would love to be part of the next World Cup and with his aura as a leader of men within the team,it would be key for management to know he is on board.

Heaslip should captain the team, as I feel he is growing into the role. That's not to say that come 2015 the management won't have the luxury of being able to call on guys like Kearney, O'Connell, O Brien , Sexton and Best to step up to the plate if needed.It is only to the benefit of the team that we have guys with the experience and leadership qualities to help with the integration of young players. For example, for Marshall and Jackson to have Drico and to a lesser extent Murray beside them and to guide them in their first tests must have been a great help ,and they will only benefit from this.

The only players I see as definite starters would be Kearney, Bowe, Sexton, Murray, Healy, Best, O Connell and the back row that started on Sunday against France.



FULLBACK:
Contenders; Kearney (29) Payne(29/30), Henshaw (22), Jones (28), Earls (28), Zebo (25).

Kearney is a definite starter unless form nosedives, his leadership and dominance in the air can not be underestimated., The fact that Earls and Zebo have played there at certain times adds to their versatility but I feel their services can be used better elsewhere . Ulsters Jared Payne for me looks the real deal and could genuinely put Kearney under pressure. Jones is yet to reach the heights of 2011 before he got injured on the eve of World Cup. Henshaw has impressed me this year at full back but some feel he is better suited to centre. He is young and I think he has a bright future ahead.

COMING UP THE OUTSIDE:
Munster bound Andrew Conway , Ulsters Ricky Andrew and U 20's Darragh Leader seem to be the pick of potential full backs; yet Conway has plenty of pace so he could yet be slotted onto the wing.

WINGERS:
Contenders: Bowe (31), Zebo (25), Luke Fitzgerald (28), Gilroy (24), Trimble (27), Earls (28).

Bowe is a starter and with his pace and ability in the air its fair to say he is one of the best wingers around. Zebo was the talk of the rugby world a month ago until injury slowed his progress, and with the so called X factor is sure to become a top class winger, that's why id include him on the other wing, remembering that he can also slot into full back. Backup would be Gilroy and Fitzgerald, with Fitzgerald an option to cover centre. Trimble is a good defender but at international level offers little in attack.




COMING UP ON THE INSIDE:
O'Dea has serious pace but needs to knuckle down to get game time, Conway is another guy who could do well on the wing. O'Halloran at Connacht also deserves a mention.



OUTSIDE CENTRES:
Contenders: Earls (28), Cave(28),

Unless they clone Drico, 13 is harder to call. Earls is the front runner to replace Drico but in my opinion Earls is a better winger,anyway It's a toss up between Earls and Cave but I'd go Earls with Cave as cover.

COMING ON THE INSIDE: Munster's Barnes showed early promise but has yet to reach the highs of Munster's last Magners win when he played a key role. Ivan Dineen has looked sharp, and Eoin O'Malley at Leinster has the talent but maybe needs to bulk up. Eoin Griffin has done well at 13 for Connacht. Daly has been doing the kicking for the u20s from centre and was flawless against France so he could be one to watch in the future.

INSIDE CENTRES:
Contenders: Marshall (24), McFadden (29), Olding (21), Hanrahan (23), McSharry (25).
This is a though one to call. Marshall has stepped up against Scotland and France and looks to be there for the long haul, with McFadden as cover. McFadden has been knocking on the door for a while now and his form this year deserved better, he showed that form against France, so hopefully he can kick on. Olding, a promising young talent could be in the mix if he gets a run of games, but with Marshall ahead of him at Ulster it could be a World Cup too soon. Hanrahan also has the potential as does Connacht's McSharry

COMING ON THE INSIDE:

Ulster's Olding has showed promise at 12 but 10 or 15 could yet be his positions and it must be remembered he is still only 19.



OUTHALFS:
Contenders;Sexton (30), Jackson (23) and Madigan (26).

Sexton is a warrior and a leader that seems to get better and better with every year. Jackson as cover. Madigan could force himself into the reckoning by the time the World Cup comes around.

COMING UP ON THE INSIDE;

Hanrahan at Munster is a potential national 10 but with guys like sexton, jackson and Madigan ahead of them it wont be an easy task. Crosbie is playing 10 for the u20s but Daly has been doing the kicking so its hard to gauge him as of now but he looks a good player. Daly could make the grade, and has showed there is allot more to him than just kicking, but centre may be his calling .

SCRUMHALFS:

Murray (26), Marshall (30) and Marmion (23).
Murray to start and on the evidence of his performances this year he is developing into a top player. Marshall should get his chance as backup and offers something different. I feel its a must in today's game to have two 9's that can offer different things if the game plan needs to be changed .I think these two guys offer just that. I've been impressed with Marmion's form out west so nothing can be taken for granted.

COMING UP ON THE INSIDE; Watching the U20's this year I've been very impressed with McGrath, and the talk is that he is going to go on to represent Ireland in the future. Another player who has impressed is Sheridan at Munster .He has only played a handful of games, but to date looks to be able to make the step up.

FRONTROWS:

LOOSEHEAD: Contenders: Healy (28), Kilcoyne (27);
At loose head it's a case of Healy to start with Killer as backup. Healy has really stepped up in the last few years, excluding his brain fart against England, he has become the stand out loose head in the northern hemisphere.

HOOKER: Contenders: Best(33 ), Streuss(29), Cronin(29), Sherry(27);
Hooker will be Best with Strauss as cover, but don't rule out Cronin if his darts improve. Sherry could also come into the mix if his graph of improvement keeps its upward trend.

TIGHTHEAD: Contenders: Ross, (33), Archer(27), Hagan(28), Andress(31), Court(34), Fitzpatrick (32)
Now the big one; tight head, Mike Ross could be still around at the world cup as he will be around 35 and by no means over the hill; we don't have anyone really putting their hand up. I'd go with Hagan as backup. This is just an unknown . Archer is behind Botha at Munster but if given some game-time he could pass them all out. Archer has played well in the few games he has started so far and looks to be improving on last year. Andress is plying his trade in England which as Ross would know its not the worst place to learn your trade.


COMING UP ON THE INSIDE:
The Byrne twins have been the talk of Leinster underage for a few years, one at hooker and the other at tight head, Connacht's New Zealand-born captain, Nathan White has been scrummaging well at tighthead. Jack McGrath maybe one to keep an eye on at Leinster. Annett in Ulster has a great teacher in Rory Best so he could also be one to keep an eye on at hooker. It must be said that in scrummaging terms you don't hit your prime until mid to late 20s so hopefully some of these guys can be seen in green down the line.

LOCKS:
Contenders: Ryan (32), McCarthy (34),O'Connell (35), Denton (27), Nagle (28), Henderson (23), Tuohy (30).

If all are fit I would bring Ryan, McCarthy, O'Connell and Henderson. If Nagle can stay injury free and get a run of games I think he has the potential, as does Denton, to be there or there abouts, Tuohy didn't look out of place when he got his caps against the All Blacks and Australia, so he could also come into contention.

COMING UP ON THE INSIDE:
Andrew Browne and South African youngster Quinn Roux (who won't be qualified in time for the World Cup) could be ones to look out for. Dave O'Callaghan from Munster can play both back row and lock and has begun to get some game time so hopefully he can fulfill his potential.

BACKROW:
Contenders:O'Mahony (24), O'Brien (26), Heaslip (32), Ferris (30), Diack(30), Henry(31), Wilson(34), Ruddock (25), O Donnell (28).

Starters at the moment would be O'Mahony, O'Brien and Heaslip with Ferris, Henry and O'Donnell as over. This of course depends on what management want from their back rows, or if its a case of picking the best, and finding a place for them. Ruddock is a fine player and two years is a long time in development terms, so he could end up as a starter by then.

COMING UP ON THE INSIDE:
Conor Gilsenan at Leinster is been talked about as a future international 7, Ulsters Conor Joyce is another promising player, Ryan at Leinster has done well when played, but controversial as it is C.J. Stander in my opinion is the one player that has the ability to make the cut. Granted its early days and he could yet end up back in South Africa, but from the little I've seen of him it looks like a matter of time but won't make next World Cup as he won't be qualified by then.

My team: 15. Rob Kearney, 14. Tommy Bowe, 13. Keith Earls, 12. Luke Marshall, 11. Simon Zebo, 10. Jonathan Sexton, 9. Conor Murray; 8 . Jamie Heaslip, 7. Sean O'Brien, 6. Peter O'Mahony, 5. Donnacha Ryan, 4. Mike McCarthy, 3. Mike Ross, 2. Rory Best, 1. Cian Healy:

Replacements: 16. Richardt Strauss, 17. Dave Kilcoyne, 18. Jamie Hagan, 19. O'Connell, 20. Ferris, 21. Marshall, 22. Jackson, 23. Fitzgerald.

Why Stephen Ferris going to Japan is good

There's rumours that Stephen Ferris has been approached by a Japanese club, and twitter seems all doom and gloom about it.

There should be no doom and gloom. This is a great idea and will benefit all parties. Here's why.

Stephen Ferris:
From a financial point of view, playing in Japan is going to earn Ferris big bucks. But more than that, from a playing style, Japanese rugby is far less physical than the Rabo and the Heineken Cup. And a year away from that given Fez's injury woes would do him the world of good. It might even prolong his career.

There have been doubts as to whether he'll be able to come back, and how effective he can be from this latest injury. He plays such a physical game that he can't last much longer. A year in Japan will mean he can get back to match fitness in an less demanding environment and be able to return to Ulster and Ireland for the World Cup in 2015.

And as Tameti Ellison, Brad Thorn and George Smith have proved, you can come back and be just as effective after playing in Japan.


Ulster & Ireland:
Stephen Ferris is nigh on irreplaceable. When he plays, he is a colossus for club and country. It's just that he doesn't play very often, and both Ulster and Ireland have had to plan without him for large periods over the last 4 years. So while he would be a big loss, he's been a big loss already and Ulster seem to be dominating without him.

Financially, it means that the IRFU has more money in the coffers, or that someone else is going to get a centralised contract, which means that one of the provinces retains more money.

Above all else, having Stephen Ferris fit, and turning world class superstars into teddy bears again is what all Irish fans want to see. And this would be the best option for all involved to see that happen again, and for as long as possible. Japanese rugby would no doubt be getting a fantastic player, and one who if he doesn't go, may not last too much longer. This is a great idea, and should happen.

Super Rugby teams Round 5

BYE: AUCKLAND BLUES, MELBOURNE REBELS, DSL STORMERS

Friday, March 15

Otago Highlanders v Wellington Hurricanes 6:35

Highlanders: 15. Ben Smith, 14. Kade Poki, 13. Jason Emery, 12. Phil Burleigh, 11. Hosea Gear, 10. Colin Slade, 9. Aaron Smith, 8. Elliot Dixon, 7. John Hardie, 6. Joe Wheeler, 5. Jarrad Hoeata, 4. Brad Thorn, 3. Chris King, 2. Andrew Hore (c), 1. Tony Woodcock.
Reserves: 16. Brayden Mitchell, 17. Ma’afu Fia, 18. Jake Paringatai, 19. TJ Ioane, 20. Fumiaki Tanaka, 21. Lima Sopoaga, 22. Buxton Popoalii.

Hurricanes: 15 James Marshall, 14 Alapati Leiua, 13 Conrad Smith (c), 12 Tim Bateman, 11 Julian Savea, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 TJ Perenara, 8 Victor Vito, 7 Karl Lowe, 6 Brad Shields, 5 Jason Eaton, 4 Jeremy Thrush, 3 Ben May, 2 2. Motu Matu'u / Ash Dixon, 1 Ben Franks.
Replacements: 16 tbc, 17 Reggie Goodes/Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, 18 James Broadhurst, 19 Faifili Levave, 20 Chris Smylie, 21 Tusi Pisi, 22 Andre Taylor.

NSW Waratahs v Free State Cheetahs 8:40

Waratahs: 15 Israel Folau, 14 Lachie Turner, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Berrick Barnes, 11 Peter Betham, 10 Bernard Foley, 9 Brendan McKibbin, 8 Pat McCutcheon, 7 Michael Hooper, 6 Dave Dennis, 5 Kane Douglas, 4 Sitaleki Timani, 3 Paddy Ryan, 2 John Ulugia, 1 Benn Robinson.
Replacements: 16 Luke Holmes, 17 Jeremy Tilse, 18 Mitchell Chapman, 19 Lopeti Timani, 20 Matt Lucas, 21 Ben Volavola, 22 Rob Horne.

Cheetahs: 15. Hennie Daniller, 14. Willie Le Roux, 13. Johan Sadie, 12. Robert Ebersohn, 11. Raymond Rhule, 10. Johan Goosen, 9. Sarel Pretorius, 8. Philip van der Walt, 7. Lappies Labuschagne, 6. Frans Viljoen, Francois Uys, 4. Lodewyk De Jager, Lourens Adriaanse, 2. Adriaan Strauss, 1. Trevor Nyakane.

Replacements: 16. Ryno Barnes, 17. Coenie Oosthuisen, 18. Ligtoring Landman, 19. Heinrich Brussow, 20. Piet van Zyl, 21. Riaan Smit, 22. Ryno Benjamin.

Southern Kings v Waikato Chiefs 17:10

Kings: 15 SP Marais, 14 Marcello Sampson, 13 Ronnie Cooke, 12 Andries Strauss, 11 Sergeal Petersen, 10 Demetri Catrakilis, 9 Shaun Venter, 8 Jacques Engelbrecht, 7 Wimpie van der Walt, 6 Cornell du Preez, 5 Steven Sykes, 4 Darron Nell (c), 3 Kevin Buys, 2 Bandise Maku, 1 Schalk Ferreira.
Replacements: 16 Edgar Marutlulle, 17 Jaco Engels, 18 David Bulbring, 19 Daniel Adongo, 20 Nicolas Vergallo, 21 George Whitehead, 22 Hadleigh Parkes.

Chiefs: 15 Gareth Anscombe, 14 Lelia Masaga, 13 Tim Nanai-Williams, 12 Andrew Horrell, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 8 Ross Filipo, 7 Tanerau Latimer, 6 Liam Messam, 5 Michael Fitzgerald, 4 Craig Clarke (c), 3 Ben Afeaki, 2 Hika Elliot, 1 Toby Smith.
Replacements: 16 Rhys Marshall, 17 Pauliasi Manu, 18 Brodie Retallick, 19 Sam Cane, 20 Augustine Pulu, 21 Charlie Ngatai, 22 Patrick Osborne.

Saturday, March 16

Canterbury Crusaders v Blue Bulls 6: 35

Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Tom Marshall, 13 Robbie Fruean, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 Johnny McNicholl, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Kieran Read (c), 7 Matt Todd, 6 George Whitelock, 5 Dominic Bird, 4 Sam Whitelock, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Replacements: 16 Ben Funnell, 17 Joe Moody, 18 Tom Donnelly, 19 Luke Whitelock, 20 Willi Heinz, 21 Tyler Bleyendaal, 22 Adam Whitelock.

Bulls: 15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Akona Ndungane, 13 JJ Engelbrecht, 12 Wynand Olivier, 11 Jürgen Visser, 10 Mornè Steyn, 9 Jano Vermaak, 8 Pierre Spies (c), 7 Arno Botha, 6 Deon Stegmann, 5 Juandrè Kruger, 4 Flip van der Merwe, 3 Frik Kirsten, 2 Willie Wepener, 1 Mornè Mellett.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Werner Kruger, 18 Grant Hattingh, 19 Jacques Potgieter, 20 Francois Hougaard, 21 Louis Fouché, 22 Jan Serfontein.

Queensland Reds v Western Force 8:40

Reds: 15. Jono Lance, 14. Luke Morahan, 13. Anthony Faingaa, 12. Ben Tapuai, 11. Chris Feauai- Sautia, 10. Quade Cooper, 9. Will Genia (c), 8. Jake Schatz, 7. Liam Gill, 6. Ed Quirk, 5. Rob Simmons, 4. Ed O'Donoghue, 3. James Slipper, 2. Saia Faingaa, 1. Greg Holmes.

Replacements: 16. James Hanson, 17. Anae, 18. Radike Samo, 19. Butler, 20. Nick Frisby, 21. Mike Harris, 22. Toua

Force: tbc

Natal Sharks v ACT Brumbies 15:05

Sharks: 15 Louis Ludik, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Paul Jordaan, 12 Frans Steyn, 11 JP Pietersen, 10 Pat Lambie, 9 Charl McLeod, 8 Ryan Kankowski, 7 Keegan Daniel (c), 6 Marcell Coetzee, 5 Franco van der Merwe, 4 Anton Bresler, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Craig Burden, 1 Beast Mtawarira.Subs: 16 Kyle Cooper, 17 Wiehahn Herbst, 18 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 19 Jacques Botes, 20 Cobus Reinach, 21 Meyer Bosman, 22 Lwazi Mvovo

Brumbies: 15. Jesse Mogg, 14. Henry Speight, 13. Tevita Kuridrani, 12. Christian Lealilifano, 11. Joe Tomane, 10. Matt Toomua, 9. White. 8. Fotu Auelia, 7. George Smith, 6. Ben Mowen (c), 5. Sam Carter, 4. Peter Kimlin, 3. Ben Alexander, 2. Stephen Moore, 1. Scott Sio.
Replacements: 16. Silivia Silivia, 17. Ruadhri Murphy, 18.  Scott Fardy, 19. Colby Faingaa, 20. Ian Prior, 21. Robbie Coleman, 22. Clyde Rathbone

Fantasy Super Rugby Review: Round 4.

The Season is shaping up nicely.

We had a few shocks this round with 6 games and 3 teams having a rest.

The Hurricanes and the Crusaders played out a cracker of a game which finished with 57 points shared between them and one point in it. Julian Savea (50) has picked up where he left off with one of the greatest Jonah Lomu impression's since the great man, with a great try and Israel Dagg will have nightmare's about for years.

The Rebels have been more competitive this year but, seem to run out of steam in the second half of games. The Reds beating them 23-13 in one of the more entertaining Australian derbies. The Cheetahs shocked the Highlanders despite Kade Poki's (81 points - 30 for tries) hat-trick, with some great performances, with Pieter Labuschagne (41) in particular catching my eye.

The Brumbies hammered a poor Waratahs side to re-affirm there capabilities of winning the Australian conference. They have been a really impressive team, and the loss of David Pocock didn't seem to upset them. Of course it helps when you have some guy named George (32) to replace him.

The Stormers upset the Chiefs with a fantastic two point win with 70 points shared between them. There were some great tries in that game, with the Chiefs coming away with 2 bonus points. There was also a great try from Rene Ranger (40) in the Blues first loss to the Bulls. They did well do come back in the second half after a poor first half performance. Sir John seems to be doing a great job.

The game I skipped over was the Sharks unimpressive victory over the Kings, who are winning over the neutrals and being competitive. The Sharks now haven't scored a try in two games.

In the fantasy league, Murray Kinsella is gaining on the leaders with another impressive week. He is up to 5th and within striking distance of the top 4. Everyone seems to be doing better overall, with only 2 players failing to get over the minimum aim of 300 a week, and all but 3 getting over a 350. No one managed over 400 this week which leaves things tight up at the top.

Only 81 points separate 1st and 4th, with Murray Kinsella not too far off a further 168 behind. It's a very tight leaderboard with 7 players over 1,000 points and less than one gameweek's worth of points separating the first 7 positions.

Ronan Murphy and Ireland's Answer are in danger of falling behind at the bottom, and wildcards and transfers could get them back in it in no time.

The celebrities seem to have faired better this week, with Sharpey , Kafer, and Cannon making it over 400 points, and Tim Horan, Clarkie, Nick McArdle and Greg Martin also posting respectable scores. Kearnsy was disappointing with 280 points.

Future English Options at outhalf

There's been a lot of talk about the Irish options at out-half, which you can read the updated version here. But I think it's worth casting an envious eye over the options across the pond that England having coming through just in time for RWC 2015 and beyond.

Owen Farrell

Farrell is now the current incumbent and rightly or wrongly is a former IRB world player of the year nominee. And he's only 21. That is a scary thought for those going to face the English in the next 10 years and beyond.

In his short career, Farrell has already showed flawless goal-kicking, and incredibly strong defense. Farrell seems to be Jonny Wilkinson 2.0, there is certainly the equivalent English hysteria surrounding him at the moment.

With Sexton's injury, and a lack of credible alternatives, he seems to be the main runner for the starting test spot on the Lions tour. But while the English are renouncing a glorious talent, I've had reservations about him. Yes, he is a world class kicker, and tackles with no fear, but having grown up playing in the centres, does he have the skills to run a backline on the highest stage? He showed against Scotland that it would appear so, and delivered a wonderful pass for Geoff Parling to score. He didn't show this against Ireland, in horrendous conditions, which is fair enough. And Farrell showed impressive temperament to manage the game effectively.

Farrell is a coaches dream. He is incredibly solid, won't make mistakes and will kick his goals. But I'm reserving judgement on him until he demonstrates the capabilities to manage a backline for an extended run of games. In his short career he hasn't had a dip in form yet either. What separates the world class from the very good is the response to that dip in form. Until we see what happens then, we shouldn't be burdening him with IRB player of the year nominations.

Freddie Burns

The oldest of this trio, at an ancient 22 years old, has been impressing many watching Gloucester this season. Burns made his English debut coming on against the now famous game against New Zealand. He would be on the bench this 6 Nations if it weren't for an untimely injury.

There is a lot of buzz about Burns in England, and it says a lot about him that there were question marks about who would start at ten for England before Burn's injury, when you consider where Farrell is in everyone's mind now.

Unlike Farrell, Burns knows how to run a backline, he knows how to unlock a defense, is a capable runner with a great step, and has a great boot on him. His passing is excellent, and if nothing is on, he can produce a piece of magic, or find a great touchfinder.

Usually a player with that amount of attacking talent is vulnerable in defense, but Burns is a big guy, and tackles as well as anyone. Farrell may have more solidity about him, which isn't me suggesting that Burns is flaky, but Burns has the X factor.

He recently returned for Gloucester, and didn't put in a fantastic performance, but with Farrell's injury should see some game time against Italy and might start against Wales.It looks like Flood should start, but Burns should see some game time, and if he shows the form of before his injury, don't discount him for the third out-half slot on the Lions tour.

George Ford

The youngest of the 3, at only 19, but perhaps has the most potential. Ford is the youngest player to make his debut at the young age of 16 for Leicester in the LV Cup.

Ford is leaving Leicester at the end of the season, where he is backup to Toby Flood, to join Bath and show what remarkable talents he has.

From watching him in the Wolfhounds game against the Saxons a number of weeks back, Ford was head and shoulders above everyone else on the field. He oozes class.

Ford controlled that game, and showed that he has a fantastic rugby brain. He knew when to showcase his attacking talent, and when to play for position.

In terms of style he is more attacking than Farrell, and more solid than Burns.

Conclusion

If these three were in different eras, or even different nationalities, they would all have close to 100 caps on the international stage. As it is, they will be competing with each other for many years. I think that Ford has the most about him, and will usurp the challengers in the next 2-3 years.

However, right now, despite his recent injury return, I would prefer to see Burns play, even when Farrell comes back. But that's just my preference for the style I'd want my outhalf to play. One thing is for certain, England have quality coming through at ten, with a lot more substance to the Irish talent coming through in the same position.

6 Nations Midway Lions Watch

With only two international games left before Gatland picks his touring squad, these are the players that have been putting their hands up, and where there are spots still up for grabs.

Loosehead. I'm assuming three will travel, two of which are Cian Healy, and Gethin Jenkins; who seems to be returning to something resembling top form. The last spot is between Ryan Grant (Scotland), Joe Marler, Paul James and Andrew Sheridan, with replacements from Ireland and Scotland not impressing. Vunipola won't go unless he usurps Marler between now and the end of the competition. Much was expected of Ryan Grant, but he hasn't impressed as much as in November. The doubts for Andrew Sheridan emanate from his lack of internationals recently, and whether Toulon will release him in time for the tour. Paul James is an outside bet after Jenkin's injury.

Safe: Healy, Jenkins. Next in line; James, Sheridan, Grant, Marler

At hooker, Rory Best has cemented his place with some great performances around the park, aside from his dodgy throwing in the first half of the Scottish game. He brings the sort of leadership that will be invaluable on tour. One of Tom Youngs and Dylan Hartley will travel, and possibly both, with Ross Ford and Richard Hibbard the only other contenders. Ford is showing glimpses of why he was a Lion before, and Wales are calling for Hibbard's inclusion in the test team, but I've yet to be convinced. Richardt Strauss is a very left field selection, but would point to Gatland emphasising the break-down as an area of importance. Safe: Best; Next, Youngs, Hartley, Hibbard, Ford, Strauss

Tighthead, where again I'm assuming three, of which Dan Cole and Adam Jones are miles ahead of everyone. With no Sunday games, and a decent showing of form, Euan Murray is ahead of Mike Ross, who offers little else other than the scrum.

Safe; Cole, Jones. Next in line; Murray, Ross

Second Row is difficult as there doesn't seem to be a current world class star amongst the ranks. Launchbury and/or Parling may develop into world class standard, but they aren't there yet. Both are likely to travel. I've been impressed with the Scottish lineout and how it dismantled Ireland's, but it was more Jim Hamilton in particular and Ali Kellock than Richie Gray catching my eye. Donnacha Ryan and Mike McCarthy have been good this year, but it's hard to say whether either have been Lions quality. With Wales's second row stocks shallow, AW Jones's return will be welcome. Nathan Hines is in the same boat as Andrew Sheridan, but there is less competition for Hines, and Hines has shown before his willingness to leave his Top 14 club to play for the Lions

Contenders: hines, Parling, Launchbury, Ryan, Jones, Hamilton, Kellock, Gray, Lawes, McCarthy

Back Row

There are a number of contenders in the backrow. Jamie Heaslip is in danger of not travelling unless he shows up in a few games. Sean O'Brien is a certainty. Dan Lydiate needs to come back from injury as he will be needed in Australia. Warburton's place is under threat, and Tipuric has to be a traveller too. Faleatau is approaching form and all the Welsh near form are in with a shout with Gatland as head coach. I think Kelly Brown would be a smart pick and a great tourist. Johnnie Beattie has been in good form in France and for Scotland too and is in with a shout. Tom Wood and Robshaw are pushing hard for calls too. Ryan Jones is another outside bet, who might get there after impressing after a long run of no form, especially as he can cover 2nd row. Armitage is another Top 14 player that the English want included, but I don't think he's good enough to make it. Tom Croft is coming back from injury and has the potential to go aswell

Safe: O'Brien, Next: Robshaw, Tipuric, Warburton, Lydiate, Brown, Faletau, Beattie, Wood, Heaslip, Croft, Morgan, Jones

Scrumhalf

Seems a wide open race. At the very least the scrumhalves seem to be playing better than in November when all tried to play themselves out of the race. Laidlaw has been very good for Scotland, but I think he is a better outhalf than scrumhalf. His versatility is likely to earn him a spot at least. Like the English hookers one or both of Youngs and Care are likely to go, and it seems a direct choice between Phillips and Murray for a bruising type of scrumhalf which could help in the breakdown in Australia. Gatland is a fan of Phillips and his Lions experience would give him an edge.

Contenders, Laidlaw, Youngs, Care, Phillips, Murray,

Outhalf; I'm backing Sexton to be first choice, and Farrell seems to be the next in line. There aren't too many others, which suggests that anyone who plays for any of the countries is in with a shout. For England there'll be Toby Flood and Freddie Burns, Scotland will have Ruaridh Jackson, Wales have Biggar and Hook and Ireland will be showcasing Paddy Jackson and Madigan. First off, it won't be either Jackson or Madigan. Hook has a chance due to his versatility. Gatland doesn't seem to like Biggar even though he seems good to me. I think he'd prefer to take a gamble on Priestland's fitness rather than go with Biggar. Which leaves either Flood or Burns. Personally, I'd like to see Burns have a go. I think he's a fantastic talent and capable of something extraordinary. Flood has never seemed international standard, and has just been keeping the jersey warm for the youngsters to come through. He's made the most of his ability and fair play, but he isn't Lions material.

Safe: Sexton, Farrell, Next in line; Priestland, Biggar, Hook, Flood, Burns.

Inside Centre

Jamie Roberts is leading the race, but hasn't done enough to be considered a certainty for me. Matt Scott has had an industrious campaign, and is in consideration, and Brad Barritt has also done well and is a likely contender. Billy Twelvetrees and Luke Marshall are two young bolters who have both had one impressive game. More impressive gametime for either might get them a nod as they can offer alternative skills to Roberts and Barritt. It's unlikely that both Marshall and Twelvetrees would go though, and either would still be a left-field call.

Contenders: Roberts, Barritt, Twelvetrees, Marshall, Scott

Outside Centre

Brian O'Driscoll and Manu Tuilagi seem to be the frontrunners and have left Jonathan Davies behind. It's unlikely 3 will travel, so Davies might miss out. Hogg is able to cover 13 if necessary anyway.

Safe: O'Driscoll, Tuilaigi; Missing out: Davies

Wingers

Wingers are judged on ability to score tries, work ethic and defensive capibilities. There are a great mix of wingers available to Gatland. In Scotland Maitland and Visser are pushing for selection without being fantastic, Maitland is an intelligent player, and Visser is a finisher. In England Ashton is a poacher who needs work done for him. He is almost in direct competition with Visser even though they play opposite sides. Ashton's form isn't great though. In Wales Eli Walker hasn't got a look in and must be discounted, leaving Cuthbert and North as main challengers. Cuthbert is a tryscorer, and North is probably the most certain of all wingers being pacey and strong. The Irish wingers seem to have been struck down by various injuries. Bowe and Zebo could be included, but probably won't be fit in time. Gilroy is another outside bet as he offers something a little different to the other wingers. Fitzgerald hasn't gotten a look in, but would be good enough, while Earls and McFadden aren't good enough.

Safe: North; Contenders: Cuthbert, Visser, Maitland, Gilroy. Ashton, Bowe, Zebo

Full back.Leigh Halfpenny has been outstanding for 4 years now. He is as certain as anyone could be. Stuart Hogg is pushing hard too. Rob Kearney went from being a certainty to being close to not travelling. He has enough about him to get there, but hasn't fully rediscovered his form since returning from injury. If he finds it any time from now until the team announcement, he'll be on the plane. Alex Goode, Ben Foden and Mike Brown are all in with a shout, and with most of these players able to cover other positions, don't be surprised if as many of these as possible are selected.

Safe: Halfpenny, Contenders; Hogg, Kearney, Goode, Foden, Brown