In sport, everyone wants to discover who the next great talent is.
With the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc upon the rugby season, we have put together a handy guide to ensure your eyes are fixed on the game’s best young stars.
In this series, find out the most exciting rugby players around the world who are aged 23 or below. Some are already capped, while others are yet to be capped for their nations.
Today, our focus is on Scotland, a team who failed to make the knock-out stages of the 2019 World Cup, but can be a joy to watch on their day.
JAMIE RITCHIE (EDINBURGH)
Arguably Scotland’s best player at present, Ritchie has all the hallmarks of a future international captain.
The Edinburgh man is a nuisance at the breakdown, has the game knowledge, passion and desire to put his body on the line against elite opposition.
Even after taking a blow to the face in the recent win over France, the 23-year-old stepped up and led the charge, putting in a tireless shift around the park.
Himself and Hamish Watson are a class pairing over the ball and present a serious threat to opposition ball carriers.
The towering man from St. Andrew’s loves a physical contest and was once British schools judo champion. Turning 24 in August, he has his best years ahead of him to inspire Scotland to greater heights.
Strengths: Carrying, tackling, workrate, leadership
ADAM HASTINGS (GLASGOW)
AGE: 23
CAPS: 20
POSITION: Out-half
A lot was made about Finn Russell’s absence in the build up to the Six Nations, however, Hastings put his head down and performed excellently.
Against France, he provided an assist and kicked 13 points, controlling the pace of the game to steer Scotland to a second win in the championship.
In difficult conditions in the defeat to England, it was hard for the 23-year-old to get his forwards on the front foot and his backs moving. However, in spite of that, he still showed some neat touches in possession.
With 20 caps to his name, Hastings – son of former Scotland captain Gavin – is relishing his own route to the top.
Strengths: Passing, kicking, eye for space
JAMIE DOBIE (GLASGOW WARRIORS)
AGE: 18
CAPS: Uncapped
POSITION: Scrum-half
A serious talent.
The 18-year-old is the first Scottish player since Blair Kinghorn to skip an academy system and go straight from school into a full-time contract. That alone marks him out as one to watch.
The budding scrum-half, who turns 19 in June, likes to play at a tempo and has a razor-like pass on him. A strong defender for his size, he has sharp game management skills and his box-kicking is equally impressive.
While George Horne and Ali Price excel for the international side, all the Inverness man is lacking is experience and that will come through more minutes at the Warriors.
Strengths: Passing, box kicking, game management
