Alex Walpole currently sits in the number 1 spot after a number of inspired selections in week one, including captain Thomas Ramos, supersub Dan Sheehan, and excellent performances from the likes of Grégory Alldritt, Huw Jones, Rory Darge, Tom Curry, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Darcy Graham, Antoine Dupont and Bundee Aki.
Alex ended up with a massive 657 points, so we spoke to him to try and get some tips going into Round 2 this weekend…
Coming top of the world is a serious achievement. Are you a regular fantasy rugby player?
AW: Yes, I play the Six Nations fantasy game every year.
Did you have a strategy in your team selection, or was it more a case of going with your gut feeling?
AW: My usual strategy is to pick a backline consisting of teams who are playing against Wales/Italy. I back these up with your staple players like Dupont or Ramos. For the forwards, I tend to pick second rows from teams who usually have less possession; a front row who will play most of the game; and a back row that carries a lot.
Clearly your team performed from 1-15 but do you still have any selection regrets at all?
AW: My only regret was picking Sam Prendergast over Tommaso Allan.
The supersub can be the difference between a good gameweek and a league-winning gameweek. Do you have a strategy as to who you select for the supersub?
AW: I normally just pick the substitute hooker for Ireland or France.
If there’s one single tip that you’d give to a new fantasy rugby manager, what would it be?
AW: Pick Dave Cherry every week! And check who is doing the kicking for each team.
Did you use any specific websites or resources to help your team planning?
AW: Not really. I just pick the players on gut feeling and from what I’ve seen in previous Six Nations matches.
Prior to your last weekend, had you done well in previous years?
LT: I normally do fairly well in my league with my family and mates.
Will you be changing your approach at all for Round 2? Any lessons your learned from your fantasy selection in Round 1?
LT: I will be looking at bringing in Ange Capuozzo and Damian Penaud (depending on fitness).
You can follow The Fantasy Rugby Geek on X or visit fantasyrugbygeek.com and play in the Fantasy Rugby Geek Leagues here.
