The race for the Six Nations squad is heating up, and one player’s case is growing irresistible. But here’s where it gets controversial: is Tommy Freeman’s shift to the 13 position the game-changer we’ve all been waiting for? Let’s dive into the latest PREM Rugby Team of the Week and find out.
As Round Nine of the PREM season wrapped up, the action was nothing short of electrifying. It all began with a Friday night double-header, where the Newcastle Red Bulls finally secured their first win of the season against Gloucester, while the Bristol Bears staged a stunning comeback to defeat the Sale Sharks at Ashton Gate. And this is the part most people miss—these early matches set the tone for a weekend filled with dramatic moments and standout performances.
Saturday’s fixtures didn’t disappoint either. Bath clinched a thrilling 81st-minute try to edge out their West Country rivals, the Exeter Chiefs, while the Northampton Saints handed Harlequins yet another heavy defeat. To cap it all off, the Leicester Tigers secured a crucial bonus-point victory over Saracens, further intensifying the playoff race.
Starting with the backs:
15 George Hendy (Northampton Saints): His Six Nations squad aspirations are looking stronger by the week. Hendy’s current form is nothing short of exceptional, and his performance against Harlequins was a masterclass in attacking rugby. With 114 metres from 11 carries, three defenders beaten, and a line break, he’s making it hard for selectors to ignore him. Elliott Obatoyinbo was impressive too, but Hendy’s consistency is hard to overlook.
14 Eduardo Todero (Northampton Saints): The Italian international has seamlessly adapted to the PREM this season, but Saturday’s performance was his most impressive yet. His attacking flair was on full display, racking up 148 metres from just nine carries and beating seven defenders. His late try was the icing on the cake. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso was close, but Todero’s impact was undeniable.
13 Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints): Freeman’s shift to the 13 position seems to be paying dividends. The England and British and Irish Lions star has always had that X-factor, but this move allows him to influence the game in new ways. Against Harlequins, he led the team with 16 carries for 125 metres and capped it off with a well-deserved try. Will Wand also stood out for Leicester, but Freeman’s versatility is a game-changer.
12 Orlando Bailey (Leicester Tigers): While Bailey hasn’t often started at 12, he looked right at home in Leicester’s win over Saracens. His playmaking skills and deft handling were pivotal in Leicester’s wide and fast attack. He also contributed ball-in-hand, beating five defenders. Cameron Redpath was a close contender, but Bailey’s all-round performance edged it.
11 Adam Radwan (Leicester Tigers): England attack coach Lee Blackett would have been impressed with Radwan’s performance. His first try was a thing of beauty, and he thrived in Leicester’s expansive attack, racking up 143 metres. His intercept try late in the game showcased his defensive prowess too. Kalaveti Ravouvou was unlucky to miss out, but Radwan’s impact was undeniable.
10 Billy Searle (Leicester Tigers): Searle’s performance saw him leapfrog Fin Smith for the 10 shirt. After a journeyman career since Worcester’s demise, he’s found a home at Leicester. His dual threat of carrying and distribution, coupled with accurate kicking, made him a standout. A truly complete performance.
9 Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints): Mitchell’s form has been spellbinding, and he was once again at the heart of Northampton’s attack. His tempo around the ruck and sniping runs (86 metres from six carries, two line breaks) were exceptional. Simon Benitez Cruz was key for Newcastle, but Mitchell’s consistency sets him apart.
Moving to the forwards:
8 Alfie Barbeary (Bath): In a weekend of impressive number eights, Barbeary stood out. His 15 carries for 24 metres, eight defenders beaten, and a try showcased his all-round ability. Callum Chick, Greg Fisilau, and Tom Willis were strong contenders, but Barbeary’s impact was unmatched.
7 Tom Christie (Newcastle Red Bulls): Christie was instrumental in Newcastle’s first PREM win of the season. His defensive effort (23 tackles, 100% success rate) was extraordinary, and he contributed in attack with carries and a try. Tom Pearson deserves a mention, but Christie’s performance was exceptional.
6 Tom Hooper (Exeter Chiefs): Hooper’s performance against Bath was outstanding. His 17 tackles, two turnovers, and ability to be in the right place at the right time were key. Sam Graham and Kane James made strong cameos, but Hooper’s influence was decisive.
5 Pedro Rubiolo (Bristol Bears): Rubiolo’s defensive masterclass (19 tackles, 95% success rate) earned him the nod over Ollie Chessum. His breakdown work was also impressive, making him a standout in the second row.
4 Alex Coles (Northampton Saints): Coles’ hat-trick and assist for Mitchell grabbed the headlines, but his tight play and lineout work were equally impressive. Another player boosting his England credentials.
3 Richard Palframan (Newcastle Red Bulls): A close call between Palframan and Joe Heyes, but the Newcastle man’s stability and defensive effort (13 tackles) gave him the edge.
2 George McGuigan (Newcastle Red Bulls): McGuigan’s all-round display (try, 12 tackles, six carries, turnover) just pipped Jamie Blamire for the number two shirt.
1 Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears): Genge’s attacking power (11 carries, 24 metres, four defenders beaten) and scrum dominance edged out Danilo Fishcetti. A true wrecking ball.
Controversial Question: Is Tommy Freeman’s shift to 13 the key to unlocking his full potential, or is it a risky move that could backfire? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
