A stacked weekend of action means there are tough decisions to make for those taking part in this year’s Fantasy Autumn Nations Series.
After New Zealand and Scotland beat Wales and Tonga respectively last weekend, there are a full six matches this weekend with the likes of England, Ireland, France and South Africa making their Autumn debuts.
With several of international rugby’s powerhouses stepping into the fold, fans and players of this year’s fantasy edition have an array of stars to choose from.
READ: Everything you need to know ahead of Fantasy Autumn Nations Series
With play just a day away, we take a look at five forwards who are worthy of inclusion in your fantasy team.
Tadhg Furlong – Ireland
Saturday’s match against Japan marks a significant occasion for 29-year-old Furlong as he makes his 50th appearance for his country.
Widely considered one of the best front row forwards in the world, he has been an integral part of Ireland’s success in recent years and is arguably one of the first names on Andy Farrell’s team sheet.
Having lost to the Brave Blossoms at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Ireland will hope for a reversal of fortune at the Aviva Stadium and Furlong will be key to their chances.
Cost: 15 Stars
Dane Coles – New Zealand
Having been rested for last weekend’s match at the Principality, World Cup winner Coles will hope to have an immediate impact on his return as the All Blacks take on Italy in Rome.
Coles, 35, has been one of New Zealand’s most reliable and consistent performers over the past decade and will be hoping to make a mark in the absence of the injured Brodie Retallick.
The All Blacks are heavy favourites for this weekend’s meeting against Italy, and Coles is more than capable of providing a statement performance.
Cost: 15 Stars
Kyle Sinckler – England
After a belated call-up to the Lions squad this summer, Kyle Sinckler will hope to make his mark on the international stage once again when England take on Tonga at Twickenham tomorrow.
Approaching the 50-cap mark for his country, Sinckler has been a part of an underwhelming Bristol Bears squad at the start of this Gallagher Premiership season but has always performed well internationally.
An opening Autumn Nation Series clash against Tonga provides the ideal opportunity for the 28-year-old to sink his teeth into action in the first of three matches this series for England.
Cost: 13 Stars
Siya Kolisi – South Africa
South Africa’s recent record against Wales at Principality Stadium is not ideal, but if there’s one man who can lead a turnaround it’s Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.
Despite having not played internationally since their 2019 World Cup triumph, Kolisi was an integral part of South Africa’s triumph over the Lions this summer and is one of the best – if not the best – flanker in the world.
Having prevailed against Wales in the semi-final of the World Cup and facing a slightly weakened Welsh side, Kolisi will relish the opportunity to get stuck in and will likely be front and centre for the Springboks this weekend.
Cost: 18 Stars
Cyril Baille – France
France face a tough start to their Autumn Nation Series as they host Argentina at the Stade de France on Saturday, and Cyril Baille will be integral in the chances of fending off the Pumas.
Baille has been a central part of a French side that has improved dramatically in recent seasons and is now one of the most attractive sides to watch in world rugby,
The loosehead prop may not find it easy against Argentina but expect him to deliver as Les Bleus look to start their Autumn campaign with a win.
Cost: 13 Stars
