Autumn Nations Series: Team of The Week

The Autumn Nations Series is heating up, and after a weekend filled with quality Tests, Bet Central compiles the best XV of the weekend.

15. Tom Wright (Australia)

Among a wealth of standout fullbacks this weekend, none shone brighter than Tom Wright. The Brumbies flyer was a counter-attacking marvel against England. Tom Jordan and his namesake Will Jordan stood out, while Willie le Roux had his best Test in ages, though not quite enough to usurp Wright.

Honourable mention: Willie le Roux (South Africa)

14. Canan Moodie (South Africa)

For someone still early in his Test career, Canan Moodie displayed impressive technical skill. He was fantastic for the Boks, a constant threat on attack and showing great game awareness. Mark Tele’a also caused Ireland a few headaches.

Honourable mention: Mark Tele’a (New Zealand)

13. Joseph Suaalii (Australia) – Player of the Week

This was among the most impressive Test debuts in history. It’s one thing for Joseph Suaalii to impress on debut, but to do so in his very first game of rugby union was remarkable. He had a natural feel for the game, as though he’d been playing for years. Suaalii is a player who will achieve great things for the Wallabies. Waisea Nayacalevu also performed excellently against Wales.

Honourable mention: Waisea Nayacalevu (Fiji)

12. Josua Tuisova (Fiji)

Last week, Fiji struggled to dominate the gainline in midfield, but with the return of Josua Tuisova, they thrived in that area. He used his tree-trunk legs to power through as a ball carrier and linked up incredibly well. Len Ikitau’s efficiency also elevated those around him.

Honourable mention: Len Ikitau (Australia)

11. Caleb Clarke (New Zealand)

With both Caleb Clarke and Mark Tele’a on the wings, the Irish defense was in for a challenging day. Clarke was a physical force on offense, and his technical prowess made him even more formidable. Makazole Mapimpi continued his consistent contributions for the Springboks, while Louis Bielle-Biarrey also impressed.

Honourable mention: Makazole Mapimpi (South Africa)

10. Caleb Muntz (Fiji)

One wonders what could have been for Fiji at last year’s World Cup if Caleb Muntz hadn’t been injured just prior. Against England, Muntz scored 19 of Fiji’s 24 points in a performance that nearly earned him Player of the Week. Marcus Smith was the top pick for this spot until Muntz’s Sunday showcase. Argentina’s Tomas Albornoz was also sensational against Italy.

Honourable mention: Marcus Smith (England)

09. Antoine Dupont (France)

Antoine Dupont’s first Test action of 2024 displayed the genius and tenacity of a generational talent. Though he made a few errors, he was still comfortably the best scrumhalf on display this weekend. Jamison Gibson-Park put in a magnificent performance despite Ireland’s loss to the All Blacks.

Honourable mention: Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)

08. Gregory Alldritt (France)

2024 may have been Gregory Alldritt’s most underwhelming season as a Test player, but he showed near-world-class form against Japan, carrying with vigor and performing outstandingly on defense. Ardie Savea also put in a monumental performance in New Zealand’s win over Ireland.

Honourable mention: Ardie Savea (New Zealand)

07. Fraser McReight (Australia)

Much like in the Rugby Championship, Fraser McReight was phenomenal against England. His breakdown work was crucial in tight situations, and his work rate was exceptional. Josh van der Flier was equally impressive for Ireland.

Honourable mention: Josh van der Flier (Ireland)

06. Rob Valentini (Australia)

It was difficult to choose in a position filled with strong performances this weekend, but Rob Valentini emerged as the standout in a titanic battle on the blindside flank. Chandler Cunningham-South made an explosive start for England, while Francois Cros was superb for France.

Honourable mention: Francois Cros (France)

05. Emmanuel Meafou (France)

A mountain of a man, Emmanuel Meafou displayed incredible mobility and ball skills for someone over 140 kg. He was immense for France against Japan. Jeremy Williams also shows promise in the Wallabies’ second row.

Honourable mention: Jeremy Williams (Australia)

04. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)

Though Eben Etzebeth is aging, he was outstanding against Scotland, carrying with reckless abandon and fiercely contesting 50-50 situations. He also led well as captain. Maro Itoje fought hard for England over the weekend.

Honourable mention: Maro Itoje (England)

03. Thomas du Toit (South Africa)

Joel Sclavi stood out for Argentina in their impressive win over Italy, anchoring the scrum with efficiency and scoring a try. Thomas du Toit, however, showcased his potential as a future replacement for Frans Malherbe.

Honourable mention: Joel Sclavi (Argentina)

02. Asafo Aumua (New Zealand)

Asafo Aumua showed an occasional lineout wobble, but he excelled in nearly every other facet. His mobility and explosiveness made him a handful for Ireland. Peato Mauvaka and Dewi Lake also delivered solid performances.

Honourable mention: Peato Mauvaka (France)

01. Angus Bell (Australia)

If there were an award for best forward of the week, Angus Bell would be the unanimous winner. He did it all and was everywhere for the Wallabies. Eroni Nawi also played well for Fiji, as did Tamaiti Williams on Friday night.

Honourable mention: Ethan de Groot (New Zealand)