Six Nations rugby: The players to watch

The dynamic 22-year-old lock might be a relative newbie at the highest level, but he's already shown plenty of flashes of his huge potential for both club and country.

The wily veteran has represented his country more than 120 times, but the Italian captain is still an inspirational force at age 33. Powerful, skilful, a world-class player leading an underdog team.

Talented young centre Ringrose, who scored an electrifying try against World Cup finalists Australia, has Irish eyes smiling at the thought of a successor to legendary Brian O'Driscoll.

Promising young centre Jones showed that his gamble to travel afar to hone his skills in the southern hemisphere's tough Super Rugby competition paid off, when he won man of the match with a two-try performance against Australia in the autumn internationals.

The barnstorming French number 8 has rediscovered his form after a club move to Northampton. He stood up well in a loss to the mighty All Blacks, and looks set to lead a rebuilding French side who are trying to find their way back to former glories atop the Six Nations.

It seems like Welsh winger North has been around forever (having debuted in 2010), but he's still only 24 years old. Bouncing back from horrible injuries and concussions in the past two seasons, the talented game-changer is looking to book his place on the Lions tour to New Zealand.

The Exeter Chiefs winger has shown flashes of true brilliance for club and country, not just finishing tries but setting them up for others. With a Lions spot in his sights, expect Nowell to shine.

France may be rebuilding rather than challenging for the title, but their Fijian-born flyer is an electrifying talent often capable of being the most exciting player on the field.