From box-office Bielle-Biarrey to Daly denying France a shot at the grand slam, our highs and lows in 2025

Maro Itoje (England). Played every minute of every England game and, in his first championship as skipper, helped guide his side to four consecutive wins. The more responsibility he is handed the better he seems to perform. An attribute which will not have escaped the notice of Andy Farrell, the British & Irish Lions head coach. Robert Kitson