Six Nations 2024 – The 10 Best Rugby Players Of All Time
The Six Nations Championship, formerly known as the Five Nations, is one of the most prestigious and competitive rugby tournaments in the world. Over the years, it has seen the emergence of numerous rugby legends who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Here, we take a look at the 10 best Six Nations players of all time.
Rugby fans worldwide are called to book Six Nations 2024 tickets from our online platform eticketing.co. Rugby fans can book Ireland Six Nations Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.
1. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
While not a Six Nations regular, Jonah Lomu’s impact on the tournament when he played was profound. The New Zealand wing was a rugby phenomenon, known for his devastating speed and power. Lomu’s incredible performances in the 1995 and 1999 World Cups against Six Nations teams still resonate in rugby history.
2. Martin Johnson (England)
Martin Johnson is a legendary lock and former England captain. He led England to a Six Nations Grand Slam and was a crucial figure during their 2003 Rugby World Cup win. His leadership and physical presence made him a dominant force.
3. Sergio Parisse (Italy)
Sergio Parisse, often considered one of the greatest back-row forwards in rugby history, was the talismanic captain of the Italian national team for many years. His commitment and skill made him a standout player in the Six Nations, despite Italy’s struggles.
4. Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Brian O’Driscoll is one of Ireland’s most celebrated rugby players. His incredible agility, vision, and defensive skills made him a consistent threat in the Six Nations. He was Ireland’s captain for many years and holds the record for most tries in Six Nations history.
5. Jonny Wilkinson (England)
Jonny Wilkinson is renowned for his iconic drop-goal that secured England’s 2003 World Cup victory. In the Six Nations, his precision with the boot and tactical acumen were invaluable. He is England’s all-time leading scorer in the tournament.
6. Gareth Edwards (Wales)
Gareth Edwards, considered one of the greatest scrum-halves in rugby history, was a key figure in Wales’ Golden Era. His lightning-quick delivery and superb decision-making made him a standout player in the Five Nations.
7. Jean-Pierre Rives (France Six Nations Team)
Jean-Pierre Rives was an iconic French flanker known for his fearless and dynamic style of play. He was a pivotal figure in France’s rugby history and a key player in multiple Five Nations victories.
8. Diego Dominguez (Italy)
Diego Dominguez, an Italian rugby legend, was known for his remarkable kicking skills. He scored over 1,000 points in the Six Nations, making him one of the tournament’s all-time top scorers.
9. Jeremy Guscott (England)
Jeremy Guscott was an electrifying center for England, celebrated for his incredible attacking prowess. His famous drop-goal in the 1995 Grand Slam decider against Scotland remains etched in rugby lore.
10. Ronan O’Gara (Ireland)
Ronan O’Gara is one of Ireland’s greatest fly-halves. His precise kicking and game management were instrumental in Ireland’s successes, including a Grand Slam in 2009.
These players have not only left their mark on the Six Nations but have also contributed significantly to the global rugby legacy. Their remarkable skills, leadership, and achievements have solidified their places in rugby history as some of the best players to have ever graced the Six Nations tournament.
France to Face Ireland on a Friday Night to Open the Six Nations 2024
In a move that is set to electrify rugby fans across the globe, the Six Nations Championship has announced that France will face Ireland on a Friday night to open the 2024 tournament. This scheduling shake-up is a bold departure from tradition, as the Six Nations has primarily featured matches on weekends. The decision reflects the evolving landscape of rugby and aims to attract a wider audience to the sport.
A Bold Shift in Scheduling the Six Nations
The Six Nations, steeped in history and tradition, is one of the most prestigious tournaments in international rugby. For many years, matches were exclusively held on Saturdays and Sundays. However, the organizers have decided to break from convention by scheduling the France vs. Ireland clash on a Friday night, marking the first time a Six Nations fixture has been played on a Friday.
This innovative move is driven by several factors, including the desire to accommodate a wider audience and provide a unique experience for fans. Playing a key match on a Friday night will likely capture the attention of those who might have missed weekend games due to other commitments. Rugby fans can book Six Nations 2024 Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.
Primetime Entertainment
The decision to host a Six Nations match on a Friday night reflects rugby’s growing emphasis on enhancing the spectator experience. A Friday night fixture will undoubtedly create an electrifying atmosphere, with fans coming together to support their teams after a long workweek. The match will serve as the perfect start to the weekend, combining sports, entertainment, and social engagement.
For television viewers, this shift offers an opportunity to watch top-level rugby in primetime. With many sports fans seeking engaging content on Friday evenings, the France vs. Ireland encounter promises to be a compelling draw.
Global Appeal
Rugby, once considered a niche sport, has been steadily gaining popularity worldwide. The decision to stage a Six Nations match on a Friday night is expected to enhance the sport’s global appeal. Rugby enthusiasts from different time zones will have the opportunity to tune in for a thrilling encounter.
The France vs. Ireland clash, as the opening match of the 2024 Six Nations, holds particular significance. The opening game often sets the tone for the entire tournament, and this bold scheduling change aims to make a resounding statement about the future of rugby.
The Future of Rugby after Six Nations
As the sporting world evolves, rugby is embracing change to ensure its relevance and excitement. The decision to play a Friday night fixture in the Six Nation is a testament to the sport’s adaptability and commitment to engaging both loyal fans and newcomers.
While tradition remains an essential part of rugby’s charm, innovation and creativity will shape its future. The France vs. Ireland clash on a Friday night will be a thrilling chapter in the ongoing story of rugby’s global growth, and fans around the world eagerly await this historic kickoff to the 2024 Six Nations.
Johnny Sexton could be set for Six Nations 2024 involvement with Ireland
After all, legendary Ireland midfielder Johnny Sexton could well feature in Ireland’s next Six Nation campaign. Key played his last match on October 14, when the Irish lost to New Zealand in the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup.
Sexton had hoped to end his playing career on a high by winning the World Cup, but a 28–24 defeat to the All Blacks meant it ended in disappointment. After Leinster missed the end of the season through injury and suffered another quarter-final exit, he may be tempted to return to the pitch, but the 38-year-old is unlikely to do so.
Mike Catt’s potential departure ahead of Six Nations
Instead, Sexton is being linked with a coaching role with the national team amid rumors that Mike Catt is set to step down as Ireland’s attack coach after the World Cup. The Sunday Times reports that Catt is likely to leave following his family’s move to England, although he could still remain in place for the 2024 Six Nations.
If the 52-year-old’s departure is confirmed, it would open up a place in Andy Farrell’s backroom team, with the Irish Rugby Football Union keen to make use of Sexton’s extensive knowledge.
He already has a job outside rugby at Ardagh Group, where the former Leinster playmaker has worked as the company’s commercial manager one day a week for the past two years. Sexton always planned to go into business immediately after retirement, but with no shortage of coaching offers, he may be tempted to give it a try.
Sexton’s coaching ambitions
“In an interview with the Irish Times earlier this year, the former midfielder was asked if he was thinking about coaching and he replied: Never say never, you never know what life will throw at you.”
However, Sexton admitted that he would find it difficult to coach recent teammates, saying: It wouldn’t be my plan straight away if an offer came in, it wouldn’t be right for me to coach the guys I played with. last number of years. Mike Ross, who played with the 38-year-old for Leinster and Ireland, does not see the move happening straight away.
We are offering Six Nations Tickets. Rugby admirers can get Six Nations 2024 Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source to book Guinness Six Nation tickets.
