Courtney Lawes

Very simply, he's probably one of the most exciting prospects in English rugby at present and, at just 20, already making a strong impression with both club and country.

Surprisingly quick and athletic for 2.01m and 104kgs, he is equally at home in the second or back rows, having been usually selected at blind side flanker for England U20s and at lock for his club Northampton.

His Northampton debut came in their 2007-2008 ND1 season, but he has firmly established himself in the match day squad since Saints returned to the top flight.

Despite his young age and the physicality of the Premiership, he's not one to take a backward step and has a burgeoning reputation as a hard and effective tackler. His 'hits' on French scrum halves in last season's ECC campaign have become popular YouTube viewing.

Following the Junior World Cup in Japan this year, Courtney has been added to the England Saxons squad and is set to make further progress on all fronts in 2009-10

His DOR rating has already been upgraded this year but its sure to rise again.

Ian Spokes 18 August 2009