The 2023-2024 URC season saw the Glasgow Warriors crowned champions for the second time in their history. With a victory over the Bulls in the final, winning 16 to 21, the Scots achieved a remarkable feat, defeating Munster away in the semi-finals before overcoming the South Africans in their own backyard in the final. Let's take a look at the standout players of this 2023-2024 season.
1) Jamie Osborne, a Four-Star Clover
The versatile back from Leinster showcased his immense talent this season. With 13 games in the championship and 4 in the Champions Cup, including the final against Stade Toulousain, Osborne became a key player for his franchise. Scoring 3 tries and displaying great promise, the Irishman earned his first caps for the Ireland national team at just 22 years old! A line-breaking force in Leinster's attack, Osborne is known for his excellent kicking game and remarkable game-reading skills. The challenge now is to secure his place as an undisputed starter in the green jersey, a significant task given the competition...
Watch his opportunistic try against the Ospreys
2) Sacha Mngomezulu, a Debut with the Springboks
Sacha Mngomezulu stood out this season with his club, the Stormers. Playing 11 matches and scoring 5 tries, 9 penalties, and 9 conversions, the South African center made a significant impact. A reliable kicker, solid defender, and sharp attacker, Mngomezulu's impressive season was rewarded with his first caps for the national team. He participated in all 4 summer test matches with the Springboks, scoring 17 points. At 22, the young Stormers center is a player to watch in the coming years...
3) Cameron Winnett, the New Welsh Gem
This season marked a turning point in the career of the young Welsh fullback, Cameron Winnett. At 21 years old, Cardiff's number 15 had a remarkable season 2024! Delivering strong performances for his club, including two tries, Winnett earned his first call-up to the Wales national team. He even started in all the Six Nations matches for the Welsh team. His counter-attacking prowess and electric footwork have won over Welsh fans.
4) Mackenzie Martin, Cardiff's Powerhouse
Standing at 1.96 meters and weighing 116 kilograms, these are not the dimensions of a refrigerator, but of Cardiff's flanker, Mackenzie Martin. After a stellar season with his club, featuring in 11 URC matches and 4 in the Champions Cup, Martin also earned his first caps for the Welsh national team. Appearing in three matches during the Six Nations and two test matches, Martin is experiencing a true breakthrough. With his powerful impact, the flanker has the potential to become a standout player in the URC and perhaps for the Wales national team... a player to keep an eye on..
5) Max Williamson, the Glasgow Giant
The lock with exceptional size, standing at 2.01 meters and weighing 120 kilograms, made a name for himself this season with the Glasgow Warriors. Crowned URC champion after playing in 15 matches, Williamson also featured in 5 Champions Cup games for his club. Known for his strong impact in both attack and defense, his performances earned him a place in the Scotland national team this summer, participating in 3 test matches. At only 22 years old, the lock had a fantastic season, which he now needs to build on to establish himself in the national team.
