Get ready for some rugby excitement! We're about to dive into the Investec Champions Cup Team of the Week, and trust me, it's a thrilling ride. The stars aligned, and these players put on a show that left fans in awe and opponents shaking in their boots.
Following an intense round four, Planet Rugby has unveiled its latest Team of the Week, and it's a lineup that will make you sit up and take notice.
Toulouse, Bath, and Glasgow Warriors take center stage, but this week's performances were exceptional across the board. Let's dive right in and uncover the heroes who made it to our Investec Champions Cup XV!
15. Thomas Ramos (Toulouse): Ramos was the star of the show in Toulouse's demolition of Sale Sharks. His playmaking skills were on full display, orchestrating Toulouse's attack with precision. But it's not just his passing; Ramos also posed a threat with the ball in hand, covering an impressive 73 meters in 12 carries. And let's not forget his flawless kicking, slotting 11 conversions with ease.
14. Joe Cokanasiga (Bath): Cokanasiga has been flying under the radar, but this weekend, he exploded onto the scene. The powerhouse winger seemed to be everywhere, making things happen for Bath. His ability to float off his wing into the midfield channel was a sight to behold, and he racked up an impressive 124 meters in just 10 carries. His brace was well-deserved, and it might just put him back in the England discussion.
13. Juan Ignacio Brex (Toulon): It was a good weekend for Top 14 centers, but Brex stood out. The Italian international was a class act in Toulon's win, adding some much-needed punch to their midfield with consistent gainline carries. But it's not just offense; Brex also showcased his defensive prowess, backing up his carries with solid defense.
12. Max Ojomoh (Bath): Ojomoh put on a masterclass at inside center this weekend. His playmaking skills, honed during a brief stint at fly-half, were on full display. He linked up beautifully with Cokanasiga and even grabbed an assist. But it's not just his passing; Ojomoh also brought his typical power to the table, covering 76 meters in just eight carries. He's been building momentum all year, and this weekend's performance was a timely reminder of his talent, especially with the England squad announcement looming.
And here's where it gets controversial...
11. Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Begles): While Toulouse's Matthis Lebel held this position on Saturday, Bielle-Biarrey's hat-trick display earns him a spot in our team. The Frenchman was electric, playing a crucial role in Bordeaux's counter-attacks that led to victory over Bristol. He covered 77 meters, broke through two lines, and always seemed to be in the right place at the right time to score a try.
10. Marcus Smith (Harlequins): Smith was on fire this weekend, putting in a performance that will boost his confidence for the rest of the season. He seemed to have an extra spark, getting Harlequins' attack firing on all cylinders. But it's not just his passing; Smith also posed a carrying threat, taking his team to victory. And his kicking was on point, which will only further boost his confidence.
9. Antoine Dupont (Toulouse): Dupont put on a scrumptious display that will have Six Nations teams taking notice. He was simply mesmerizing against Sale, with his distribution and carrying skills on full display. He covered an eye-watering 134 meters in 14 carries, beat seven defenders, and even bagged a brace. When Dupont plays like this, rugby looks effortless.
The forwards:
8. Jack Dempsey (Glasgow Warriors): Dempsey will likely be feeling the effects of a hard-fought battle against Saracens. He was a key figure in Glasgow's win, throwing himself into the fray and dominating proceedings. He made 15 tackles, carried the ball 12 times, and turned over the ball twice. It was also a good weekend for English number eights, with Alfie Barbeary, Alex Dombrandt, and Ben Earl all putting in strong performances.
7. Jeandre Rudolph (Bulls): It's not every day you win Player of the Match after playing just 15 minutes, but Rudolph pulled it off. He entered the pitch with an incredible hunger, winning two turnovers, making five tackles, and covering 17 meters with the ball in hand. His impact gave the Bulls that extra push to secure victory against Pau.
6. Baptiste Delaporte (Castres): Delaporte put in a mega defensive shift when his team needed it most. He was the spearhead of Castres' gritty efforts against Munster, making an impressive 21 tackles. His performance laid the foundations for their victory.
5. Emmanuel Meafou (Toulouse): Meafou, the powerhouse lock, was back to his best this weekend. He dominated in the tight, giving Toulouse consistent front-foot ball, and he fronted up well in defense too. A true force to be reckoned with.
4. Scott Cummings (Glasgow Warriors): Cummings has really stepped up since the British and Irish Lions tour, and this weekend, he put in a monstrous effort. He threw his body around with an almost reckless disregard for his own safety, making 13 tackles. He was also heavily involved in the breakdown battle. A true warrior.
3. Thomas du Toit (Bath): Du Toit was a powerhouse once again, tearing through the Edinburgh pack at scrum time. He was a force to be reckoned with in the loose, and he even grabbed a try. A complete performance.
2. Gregor Hiddleston (Glasgow Warriors): Hiddleston has emerged as a real force for Glasgow, and this weekend felt like a huge step towards senior Scotland selection. The powerful hooker was a thorn in Saracens' side, winning three turnovers, making 18 tackles, and carrying the ball four times. He also excelled in the set-piece.
1. Simon Kerrod (Harlequins): La Rochelle rarely comes off second-best in the scrum, but Kerrod seemed to have their number on Sunday. He consistently got the better of Uini Atonio, setting the tone for Harlequins' impressive win. A relentless effort.
So, there you have it, the Investec Champions Cup Team of the Week. These players put on a show, and it's no wonder they made the cut. But what do you think? Who impressed you the most? And are there any controversial picks you'd like to discuss? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
