The Women's Six Nations 2026 has just concluded, and it's time to celebrate the incredible talent on display. Opta's team of the tournament showcases some of the most outstanding performers, and I'm excited to dive into their achievements and the broader implications for women's rugby.
Unlocking Talent
One of the most fascinating aspects of this team is the blend of experienced campaigners and exciting debutants. Take Pauline Barrat, for example. At just 21, she's already making waves with her electric play. Her stats speak for themselves: top five in carries, second in metres gained, and joint second in defenders beaten. But it's her link play that truly sets her apart, with 12 line break assists, an incredible display of vision and execution.
Anais Grando, another French debutant, also impressed. She finished as Les Bleues' top try-scorer, showcasing her finishing prowess. Grando's ability to create and finish tries is a testament to the depth of talent in the French squad.
Leading by Example
Meg Jones, the England captain, led from the front. She was the only English player to feature in every minute, a testament to her durability and importance to the team. Her stats across the board were impressive, from try involvements to line breaks, she was a key figure in England's campaign.
Impact Players
Courtney Keight, despite playing for a team that finished with the Wooden Spoon, showcased her talent and provided a bright spot for Wales. Her ability to gain metres in contact and her dominant tackles were a highlight.
Zoe Harrison, the English fly-half, was a key playmaker. Her passing accuracy and line break assists demonstrate her ability to unlock the talent around her. Her kicking accuracy, especially from within 10 metres of the touchline, was exceptional, and her success rate was the highest of any player.
French Dominance
France's dominance in this team is notable. Pauline Bourdon Sansus, Ambre Mwayembe, and Madoussou Fall Raclot all make the cut. Bourdon Sansus, in particular, was instrumental in Les Bleus' campaign, directly involved in nine tries. Mwayembe's all-round game, from metres gained to dominant tackles, showcases her versatility. Fall Raclot, meanwhile, made a huge impact with her carries and metres gained, a true workhorse for France.
Italian Influence
Italy's Valeria Fedrighi and Francesca Sgorbini also feature. Fedrighi's tackling and rucking stats were impressive, and she exemplified Italy's exciting brand of rugby with her passing game. Sgorbini, with her carries and turnovers won, was a key figure in the Azzurre's campaign.
Unseen Work
Erin King, the Irish player, truly deserves her spot. Her work at the ruck, both in attack and defence, was exceptional. She kept Marlie Packer, the top try-scorer, out of the team, which is a testament to her all-round game. King's stats, especially in rucks and tackles, highlight the importance of the 'unseen' work in rugby.
Rising Star
Aoife Wafer, still only 23, is a rising star in women's rugby. She topped the charts in carries and metres gained, showcasing her ability to impact the game in attack. But her defensive stats are equally impressive, ranking in the top 10 for tackles and turnovers won. Wafer is a complete package and a player to watch in the future.
Broader Implications
This team of the tournament highlights the depth of talent in women's rugby. The blend of experienced players and exciting newcomers bodes well for the future of the sport. The stats and achievements of these players demonstrate the growth and development of women's rugby, and I, for one, am excited to see what the future holds.
Women's rugby is a force to be reckoned with, and these players are leading the charge. It's an exciting time for the sport, and I can't wait to see how these stars continue to inspire and innovate.
