Alex Dombrandt

One of the most destructive back-row forwards in English rugby, Alex Dombrandt has made the number eight jersey his own at Harlequins. Born on 29 April 1997, the England international is renowned for his powerful ball-carrying, intelligent link play and a deft offloading game that allows him to keep attacks alive in contact. Dombrandt rose to prominence after an eye-catching rise through the club ranks, and he was a central figure in Harlequins' thrilling 2021 Premiership title triumph. That form earned him an England debut in 2021, and he has since added multiple caps to his name. For both club and country he operates as a primary attacking weapon in the back row, frequently launching plays from the base of the scrum and providing go-forward momentum with ball in hand. His blend of size, footwork and handling makes him a difficult man to contain in open play, while his work around the fringes adds another dimension to his side's attack. A genuine match-winner on his day, Dombrandt remains one of the most influential forwards in the English game.