Nathan Hughes

Few forwards carry the ball with the sheer momentum of Nathan Hughes, the powerful back-rower who has taken his game to Racing 92 in the Top 14. Born in Fiji on 10 June 1991, Hughes qualified for England and won international honours during a career that established him as one of the most destructive ball-carriers in the English Premiership, most notably during his time with Wasps. A natural number eight equally comfortable across the back row, he is built around go-forward: bursting through the first line of defence, generating quick front-foot ball and offloading out of contact. At Racing 92 he brings that hard-nosed, experienced edge to a star-studded Parisian squad, offering crucial gainline momentum and defensive presence in the collision. Hughes's value lies in the simple, physically dominant aspects of forward play — carrying, cleaning and tackling with real impact. A seasoned professional who has competed at the highest levels of club and international rugby, he remains a powerful focal point for any pack he joins.