Ben Youngs' Investec Champions Cup: The World's Most In-Form Player, New No.9s, and the Pain of Leicester
In his fourth exclusive Investec Champions Cup column for Planet Rugby, For The Love Of Rugby co-host Ben Youngs shares his insights on the tournament. He names the world's most in-form player, predicts the weekend's biggest match, praises a crop of new English No.9s, and highlights an unsung hero. With nine of the 16 qualification places still undecided, the Investec Champions Cup (https://www.planetrugby.com/tournament/rugby-champions-cup) pool stage is reaching its climax, and several teams must find a result this weekend to progress.
The World's Most In-Form Player
Youngs recently declared Ellis Genge as the world's most in-form player. Props often go unnoticed, but Genge's work is exceptional. He's a good carrier for Bristol Bears, and his involvements and quality of play, especially in Pretoria, are brilliant. His offensive contributions, combined with his scrummaging and tackling, make him a standout performer.
Match of the Weekend: Glasgow vs. Saracens
The clash between Glasgow and Saracens on Sunday is a highlight. Glasgow, led by Franco Smith, is a tough team to beat at home. They have no standout player, but their efficiency as a unit is remarkable. Their midfield combination and back-row are impressive, and Scott Cummings is a key player. Saracens, aiming to build on their win over Toulouse, will face a challenging task.
Glasgow's strength lies in their ability to hold onto the ball and maintain discipline. They are patient, going through phases to score. Saracens will counter with a high-kicking game, and Youngs predicts a close contest, with Saracens just sneaking it.
Pantomime Villain: Henry Pollock
Henry Pollock, a young Northampton Saints back-rower, thrived as the pantomime villain at Union Bordeaux-Bègles. The French crowd's hostility fueled his performance, and his pulse-check celebration after scoring was memorable. Pollock's ability to rise to the challenge and perform under pressure is commendable.
Dupont in Skins
Antoine Dupont, the world's best No.9, is returning from a long injury layoff. Despite high expectations, he's showing glimpses of form in the Top 14. Youngs believes Dupont will soon be flying, given his talent and consistency. His return adds an exciting dimension to the tournament.
Tune in to Bristol
Bristol is a must-watch for great rugby. Their game against UBB on Sunday promises entertainment. Bristol's ball control and structured play impressed in Pretoria. Youngs suspects they will score four or more tries and secure a bonus point, showcasing their pace and style against a physical Bordeaux side.
Little Crop of Nines
Youngs witnessed the next crop of young English No.9s at StoneX Stadium and Twickenham Stoop. Players like Charlie Bracken and Lucas Friday are making an impact. Archie McParland's performance for Northampton Saints in France is also noteworthy. These young players will only improve with more game time.
What Has Hurt My Old Club: Leicester Tigers
Leicester Tigers, Youngs' former club, are in a competitive group. Their lack of points against Leinster and Stade Rochelais has hurt them. With a challenging match against DHL Stormers in Cape Town, Youngs predicts an upset, with Stormers winning and securing a bonus point. Leicester, however, will hope for better luck next season.
Pool 2 Prediction
All six teams in Pool 2 are in contention. Youngs predicts wins for Bath Rugby, Munster Rugby, and RC Toulon, with Edinburgh Rugby struggling. The simultaneous kick-offs at The Rec, Thomond Park, and Kingsholm would add excitement, but different kick-off times may affect the outcome.
Under the Radar: Billy Searle
Leicester's fly-half, Billy Searle, is a talented player often overlooked. With Springbok Handre Pollard's departure, Searle has stepped up and thrived. He provides consistent control and is a great addition to the team, despite not having the traditional reputation of other fly-halves in the Leicester 10 shirt.
World-Class Partnership: Craig Casey and Jack Crowley
If Craig Casey were fit, Youngs would be eager to see his partnership with Jack Crowley in Limerick. Instead, he predicts Tom Willis and Ben Earl's back-row combination for Saracens. Earl's impact and Willis' leadership will be key to Saracens' success.
Investec Champions Cup: The Greatest Club Rugby Competition
The Investec Champions Cup is the pinnacle of club rugby, and Youngs is proud to be part of it. With its exciting matches and talented players, the tournament showcases the best of the sport. Investec, the proud sponsor, supports the competition's growth and excellence.
