Who Are the Six New Faces to Watch in the Six Nations?

The 2026 Guinness Six Nations promises to be an exciting platform for emerging talent, with players like Greg Fisilau, Kalvin Gourgues, Edwin Edogbo, and others aiming to make their mark. Each nation boasts young stars who could debut and shine during the tournament, which runs from 5 February to 14 March 2026. As the competition unfolds, these players' performances may reshape the future of their respective teams.

Last updated: 29 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The 2026 Six Nations tournament is set to kick off soon, and excitement is building as fans anticipate the emergence of fresh talent on the international stage. With a mix of experienced players and new faces, each of the six participating nations—England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, and Italy—has an opportunity to showcase their capabilities. The spotlight is particularly on the young stars, who are keen to seize the moment and establish themselves in a prestigious competition.

Key takeaways

• Emerging players like Fisilau, Gourgues, Edogbo, and Hennessey are poised to make their Six Nations debuts.
• The tournament runs from 5 February to 14 March 2026, with matches broadcast live on BBC and ITV.
• Player performances could significantly impact team dynamics and future selections.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to the 2026 Six Nations has seen numerous developments, particularly concerning player selections and injuries. Below is a brief timeline highlighting key events leading to the tournament:

• 5 February 2026: Six Nations tournament begins.
• 14 March 2026: Tournament concludes.
• Ongoing: National teams announce their squads and preparations.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent announcements have unveiled the final squads for each nation, revealing potential debutants who have been in impressive form. Players like Fisilau and Gourgues have been highlighted as key prospects based on their club performances.

What was already established

Prior to this week, there was speculation about various players potentially making their debuts in the Six Nations. Their inclusion in the national squads was anticipated based on their performances in domestic leagues.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Six Nations not only influences rugby enthusiasts but also has a broader impact on households. Increased interest in the tournament can lead to more viewership and engagement with rugby-related products, from merchandise to viewing parties.

Businesses and jobs

As the tournament approaches, businesses associated with rugby, such as merchandise retailers and hospitality venues, are preparing for increased sales and foot traffic. This surge can positively impact job creation, particularly in the service sector.

Policy and regulation

With the Six Nations being a significant event on the UK sports calendar, it can also influence sports policy discussions. The success of the tournament may prompt considerations for further investment in grassroots rugby and youth development programmes.

Numbers that matter

• 5–14 March 2026: Duration of the Six Nations tournament.
• 22: The number of matches scheduled across six nations.
• 3: The number of debutants anticipated to feature prominently from England, Ireland, and Wales.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Six Nations: An annual rugby union tournament involving England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales.
• Debut: The first appearance of a player in a professional match.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the tournament approaches, fans should keep an eye on the players' performances in their club matches leading up to the Six Nations. This will provide insight into their readiness for international competition.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-tournament, the performances in the Six Nations will likely influence selections for tours and future competitions. Players who excel may secure positions in their national teams for subsequent events.

Signals to watch

• Weekly match statistics and individual player performance metrics.
• Injury reports and news from club and national team camps.
• Public sentiment and fan engagement levels leading up to and during the tournament.

Practical guidance

Do

• Follow player statistics closely to gauge form.
• Engage with local events or screenings of matches.

Don’t

• Underestimate the impact of injuries on team selections.
• Neglect the importance of fan support and engagement in the tournament atmosphere.

Checklist

• Check match schedules and times to ensure you don’t miss key games.
• Stay updated on player fitness and selections.
• Follow team announcements and news for insights into strategies and line-ups.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the excitement is palpable, uncertainties remain regarding player fitness and selection. Injuries can significantly alter team dynamics, and emerging players may not deliver as expected under pressure. Additionally, the impact of external factors such as weather and venue conditions could affect match outcomes.

Bottom line

The 2026 Six Nations is poised to be a significant event for young talents looking to make their mark on the international rugby scene. As the tournament unfolds, the spotlight will be on players like Fisilau, Gourgues, Edogbo, and Hennessey, who could reshape the future of their national teams with standout performances.

FAQs

Who are the young stars to watch in the Six Nations?

Among the emerging talents, players like Greg Fisilau, Kalvin Gourgues, and Edwin Edogbo are expected to make an impact during the Six Nations.

When does the Six Nations tournament start?

The Six Nations tournament begins on 5 February 2026 and concludes on 14 March 2026.

How can I follow the Six Nations matches?

Matches will be broadcast live on BBC TV and ITV, with coverage available on BBC Radio 5 Live and highlights on the BBC Sport website.