The battle lines have been drawn as the northern hemisphere's elite prepare to face off in a Six Nations like no other, with a wave of talent (both on-field and off) waiting to collide in a historic year for rugby.
England begin a new era under Steve Borthwick, who has a little more than six months to get ready for the 2023 Rugby World Cup after replacing Eddie Jones. Wales have a 'new' face of their own in charge, if four-time winner Warren Gatland can be called that after returning to the helm on emergency terms.
World No. 1 Ireland face a tall task in attempting to fleece titleholders France of the crown, while Scotland and Italy enter looking to spring more surprises. Ahead of what promises to be a Six Nations for the ages, Mirror Sport breaks down one player from each squad worthy of extra attention.
