As we all know, Stuart Lancaster will be announcing his player selections for the 6 Nations EPS on Wednesday (I would give you the time for when this is going to happen, but I have absolutely no idea). The debate that has been discussed amongst fans and pundits alike surrounds the possible candidates for the No. 8 position, with plenty of names being thrown into the proverbial hat. There is a plethora of English talent in this position right now, with the two on-form players being Billy Vunipola and Nick Easter. However, there is also talk of the likes of Steffon Armitage potentially coming in at 8, rather than his usual position of 7, and of course Thomas Waldrom, who has been on fire for Exeter this season. With the recent injury to Ben Morgan, that looks set to see him unable to compete in any of the 6 Nations matches, the selection for No. 8 has been thrown wide open. So what is there to make of all of the options?
Billy Vunipola - Clearly the front runner for the number 8 shirt, Billy V is probably Saracens' best player right now. He has been immense so far this season, and the epitome of his performances must be that which he put in against Munster last weekend. There was not one mistake on his part, and he was solid in defence whilst being brutal in attack, making metre after metre as well as beating multiple tacklers. His performance garnered him the Man of the Match award, and has cemented him as the obvious firm choice for Lancaster. I fully expect him to be in the announcement on Wednesday, so much so that I would put his chances at 100%.
Nick Easter - Easter's form this season has unexpectedly propelled him right into the heart of this debate. At 35 years old he is playing as if he has the fitness of a 25 year old, and it shows - he is a force to be reckoned both in an attacking and defensive sense. However, there are doubts as to whether he will make it into Lancaster's EPS because of his age despite ringing endorsements from many fans and commentators. I would put his chances at 50-50 - he might make it in due to his superb form, or not simply because he is 'getting on a bit.'
Steffon Armitage - Without a shadow of a doubt, Armitage is one of the best 7's in the world. Period. He could easily slot into the no. 8 position and boss it, but there's one major problem - he, of course, does not play in England. Lancaster will not pick any overseas players, unless the situation falls under 'special circumstances.' This in essence means that, unless England has an injury crisis, Steffon will not be making an appearance. Personally I would love to see him in the squad, as I cannot conceivably understand how his talent could be overlooked. But, I do understand the arguments that he has chosen to play abroad and that he is aware of the consequences of that decision. I am going to put his chances of inclusion at 10%, but that's only because I really want to see his name in the EPS and not because I expect him to be selected.
Thomas Waldrom - Lastly, we have Thomas the Tank. Signing on for Exeter seems to have completely rejuvenated him - he is on fire, and is playing some of the best rugby that I have ever seen him play. His form has certainly warranted consideration by Lancaster. He has scored numerous tries and broken through many defenses; he would be a great no. 8 option. I'm not 100% sure of his chances of inclusion, so I'm going to have to go for 50-50 again. If he is selected, it is likely that it would be as a replacement rather than as the starting no. 8, but what a great option to have come off the bench.
So there it is - a brief reflection on the four no. 8's that I hope Lancaster has considered in coming to his choice for the EPS. I'm sure all of you out there have your own opinions on who you would select, so don't be afraid to get in contact with your views. Here's hoping for a highly entertaining and competitive 6 Nations, with the first fixture being that between Wales and England!
Work hard, ruck hard,
Jess.
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