The 'next Rees-Zammit' scored incredible hat-trick for Gloucester against Saracens
22/04/2024 20:33
In a thrilling Premiership clash, Saracens secured a commanding 46-24 victory over Gloucester, solidifying their position in the top four of the league.
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However, amidst the fierce competition, it was a player from the visiting team who emerged as the standout performer.
Josh Hathaway, the dynamic 20-year-old utility back, captured the spotlight with his exceptional display on the field. Hailing from Aberyswyth, Wales, Hathaway’s electrifying speed and versatile skills have garnered attention from rugby enthusiasts and pundits alike.
Having represented both Wales and England at the U20 level, Hathaway has quickly established himself as a rising talent in the rugby world. Drawing comparisons to renowned former Gloucester star Louis Rees-Zammit, Hathaway’s potential seems boundless.
"When you put the ball in his hands, he is world-class, and he's scored a good few tries like that," Gloucester boss George Skivington said.
"He's a big one for Gloucester, and potentially two different nations, and I don't want him to get too far ahead of himself.
"He's a good kid, he works really hard, and his natural position probably is full-back, but we just found a space for him on the wing, and he's quick enough."
Sir Ian McGeechan selected his all-time forward pack, it’s scary good
Writing for The Telegraph, the 74-year-old reveals his dream forward pack, notably including three distinguished England internationals, sparking intrigue and discussion among fans and pundits alike.
FRONT-ROW
Loosehead-prop: Tom Smith (Scotland)
Scottish rugby legend known for his prowess in the scrum, Smith was a formidable force as a loosehead prop. His tenacity and skill earned him acclaim, including Lions tour successes and a World Cup appearance.
McGeechan said: “I just don't think he gets anywhere near the credit he deserves. Six consecutive Lions Tests in 1997 and 2001, a talismanic figure in Scotland's 1999 Five Nations win, a major reason Scotland were competitive at the 2003 World Cup.”
Hooker: Sean Fitzpatrick (New Zealand)
A Kiwi icon, Fitzpatrick is hailed as one of rugby’s greatest captains. His leadership at hooker for the All Blacks set the standard for excellence. With numerous Test victories and a World Cup win, his legacy remains indelible.
McGeechan said: “He was outstanding, not just as a player but as a captain, and as a man. His consistency was unbelievable in an international career that spanned 12 years: 92 Test appearances, including a world record 63 consecutive Test matches and 51 as captain. “
Tighthead-prop:Jason Leonard (England)
England’s most capped player, Leonard was a cornerstone of the front row. Renowned for his durability and technique, the prop’s achievements include a Grand Slam and a World Cup victory.
McGeechan said: “He played both sides of the scrum but he was more of a tighthead. Completely unflappable, Jason was never in any trouble. Technically, he was superb and temperamentally he was sound, a huge character on and off the pitch.”
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