Six Nations 2022: Team of the Tournament so far ahead of third round fixtures

The Six Nations returns this weekend after the first of two bye-weeks but which players from England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales have stood out so far?

After a week to rest, recuperate and reflect on their Week Two performances it’s almost time for the Six Nations to get back up and running with the latest round of fixtures.

This Saturday sees Scotland host France at Murrayfield and it’s do or die for the host’s title challenge following their defeat in Cardiff while the visitors are on track for a famous Grand Slam victory.

England host Wales in a fascinating encounter at Twickenham after both sides lost their opening matches but bounced back with wins in Week Two.

It’s a clash of two nations with a point to prove which adds an extra bit of fire to an already bitter rivalry.

The weekend concludes on Sunday in Dublin as Ireland will look to do the business against an Italy side who will probably need a miracle to secure a win.

Before all that though their is time to look back on the tournament so far an analyse how the best players in northern hemisphere rugby have done.

There were some incredibly tough calls to make in key positions, particularly the back row and wingers, but here is our pick for the best XV of the 2022 Six Nations so far:

1. Cyril Baille

France’s set piece doesn’t always get the credit it deserves but they have been strong so far and the Tolouse loosehead is a key part of their front row

2. Ryan Elias

Struggled at times in Wales’ opener against Ireland, as did many of his teammates, but was excellent in defence and with ball in hand against Scotland