With the European power rankings taking a break, ahead of the start of the Six Nations we rate the top 20 players heading into this year's NatWest Six Nations Championship.
Injured and suspended players have not been included, hence the absences of Jonathan Davies, Billy Vunipola, Taulupe Faletau and Sean O'Brien among others.
20. Aaron Shingler (Scarlets and Wales)
Red-hot form for the Scarlets over the last two years, the best spell of his career at 30, which will soften the back row injury setbacks Warren Gatland has suffered in losing Sam Warburton, Taulupe Faletau and Dan Lydiate. Only two players have won more lineouts than Shingler this season in the Pro14.
19. Kevin Gourdon (La Rochelle and France)
Set for a first start at number eight for France this weekend against Ireland, as Jacques Brunel looks for an alternative to Louis Picamoles. Gourdon is an exceptional athlete and part...